Exhibition revamps worn-out sneakers for a cause
JOBURG – Sneakers 4 Change is on a mission to celebrate sneaker culture and raise awareness about the lack of footwear while promoting the spirit of generosity.
Stemming from a love of sneakers and a need to make a difference in the lives of underprivileged children, Sibusiso Zulu and Hector Mgiba pursued the idea of turning worn-out sneakers into artistic works.
Through the S4CKick art exhibition, the duo sought to raise awareness about the need for footwear while promoting the spirit of giving and sneaker culture. Sneakers 4 Change is a collect-and-donate initiative that aims to provide sneakers to the less fortunate.
To date, the initiative has collected and donated more than 7 000 pairs to orphanage homes, sports clubs and individuals that lack proper footwear.
“I am always looking for something else rather than just giving a pair of sneakers to the less fortunate. I was looking to turn the sneakers into something to inspire them, uplift them and I think the exhibition is one of those things which give the platform that opportunity,” Zulu said.
The exhibition was inspired by the number of worn-out sneakers that cannot be repaired and given new life so that they can be donated to the next person.
“We’ve been getting a lot of sneakers and some of them were not in good condition. When we get sneakers we try to repair, clean and customise them to give them new life but there are some that are just worn out and you can’t do anything about it – the concept came about with us recycling those sneakers and creating something else from that,” he said.
The S4CKick art exhibition is a group exhibition by budding and prominent artists. It acts as a platform for upcoming artists, to help them break through the difficult industry of visual arts.
This year’s exhibition will be on show at Victoria Yards until 26 September and features artwork by Thulani Mbatha, Thato Tsaona Seboko, Nkosinathi Mbatha, Masai Sepuru, Air Mbadada, Butana, Lebohang Motaung and Dario Manjete.
With the second instalment of S4CKick, Zulu said the aim was to generate a new audience as sneaker culture is diverse. By hosting different mediums, the exhibition showcases the importance of visual art as well as the interpretation of the everyday life of a sneakerhead.
“We’re trying to get people out there to be active and believe in their dreams no matter their circumstances. We use sneakers as a voice because it’s something that we all relate to and all love. The culture is just so beautiful and broad and has so many influences on young people,” Zulu said.
