Sole Power

If you love sneakers, contemporary street art (or even chocolate – that should cover just about everyone, then) this book is for you.

Ever since hip-hop hit the big time in the mid Seventies trainers (sneakers, call them what you will) have found their way off the playing field and onto the street. There’s surely not a wardrobe in the land that doesn’t include at least a couple of pairs (Ok maybe my Nan’s, but she doesn’t really count). And as their popularity has grown, so has the desire to make them look ever more stylish, interesting or sometime just plain nuts.

This brand new book, Art & Sole: Contemporary Sneaker Art & Design takes us on a giddy trip through the colourful world of sneaker art – with a look at some of the very best, rarest and exclusive collaborations of today’s most creative artists and illustrators. Shoe companies don't necessarily need to rely on big name sport stars to sell their products anymore – gone are the days of sports stars such as Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and Andre Agassi telling us what the must-have shoes are. We’re now greeted with the amazing designs of such artists as Futura 2000, Kidrobot & James Jarvis who produce what are often very collectable, limited edition must-haves.

But that’s just part of the story (and the first half of this book). The second half covers the more abstract art inspired by the humble sport shoe – so we’re treated to a fascinating array of sculptures, paintings & illustrations too. And no, we weren’t kidding about the chocolate – some crazy Belgian guy has actually fashioned some out of the delicious stuff – you even get a choice of white or milk. Brilliant, if not particularly practical.

Art & Sole: Contemporary Sneaker Art & Design is published by Laurence King