Vertigo

Shape related to surroundings.

For this shoe design I have taken the work of sculptress Barbara Hepworth and artist Anish Kapoor as a starting point. Their minimalistic shapes with smooth surfaces triggered me in a very new and unexpected way. One of the design principles that I formulated after studying the work the work of both artists is the search for a definition of shape in relation to a body and it’s surroundings, the space. A lot of Kapoor’s artworks have an enormous physical presence and reflective effect that forces an instant readjustment of the viewer to his or her environment. Seeing oneself and surroundings distorted, makes me wonder what is on exhibit here the object or the space in which it exists – or both.
I translated this idea into a concept of a dialogue between the upper part of the shoe and the sole. I wanted the shape of the sole to completely surround the upper, like the feeling i have when i stand in front of an artwork by Kapoor; being swallowed up by it.
In this design reflection and perspective are key elements. Furthermore I wanted to create a clear contrast between the rigid aspect of the wooden sole and the softer, fluid aspect of the upper; sharp edges combined with curved lines.