Interview with Joshua Vides

If you haven't already heard of Joshua Vides, well you're in the right place. The artist who has literally invaded the social media with his works has decided to tell us something about him, letting us discover the inspiration behind his sketches sneakers and those that are his future projects.

Haven't you figured out who we're talking about yet? Take a look at the gallery, read the interview, and surely you will exclaim "Uh yes, I saw his sneakers on Instagram!".

#1 What should we know about you? Who is Joshua Vides?

I’m first generation Guatemalan. Born and raised in Rialto, CA. I’m 28 years old. I have a beautiful wife and two perfect children. I help others bring their ideas to life through design and execution. I also paint. 

#2 Where did the idea of turning physical sneakers into their original sketches come from?

Somewhere in my mind. I painted the first object in April of 2017.

#3 The first shoe you made (or maybe just the first one you posted on social media) seems to be a Nike Air Force 1. Was it a casual choice or did you have any special connection with the shoe?

It was actually a Reebok Classic and I chose that because I was cleaning out my office and wanted to utilize a pair of sneakers I knew I wasn’t going to wear.

#4 Did you expect such positive feedback and so much interest in your work when you started?

No. I posted the Air Force 1 in May of 2017 and got some love from friends and family. But that was it.

#5 On what shoe would you like to work the most and with whom would you like to do a collaboration, maybe revisiting a great classic?

I’m a fan of many shoe companies big and small. The real question is who can produce a quality item the quickest? I’m ready.

#6 What do you think about the explosion of the sneaker custom phenomenon? Is there any artist that you follow and appreciate the work?

It’s cool. I’m not a sneaker customizer. I simply used the shoe as a canvas. My work is meant to live in multiple worlds. I love sneakers, but I really want to paint a plane, a building, a car, etc.

#7 Some spoiler about new projects?

My first “Reality to Idea”, Experiential space open to the public in Los Angeles, CA. February 10-11, with an auction of the goods February 12. See you there!

Images courtesy of Joshua Vides