Meet the Designer Turning Sneakers Into Wearable Art
From footwear grails to the latest pair of Nike Dunks, every shoe is a masterpiece in the world of Cereal Artist.
Have you ever wondered what your favorite pair of sneakers would look like as a piece of home decor or a brand new accessory? Vivian Huang has, and her designs are every sneakerhead’s dream. Roses made out of PUMA Speedcats, studded belts and Nike card holders are only the beginning of what Huang can do with the right pair of shoes.
Beginning her design journey over six years ago, Huang has quickly become one of the biggest names in the upcycling space. Working with sneakers, footballs and other unconventional materials, her statement pieces come from a love for footwear that started organically and quickly found its way into her art.
Since she started posting her designs under the internet pseudonym Cereal Artist, she has amassed a large following and has worked with some of the biggest brands and franchises in the world. In the world of sneakers and upcycling, women are still underrepresented, but Huang hasn’t let a lack of representation stop her from shooting for the stars. With big plans for the future, this creator is one to watch.
For this edition of Baes With Kicks, we talked to Huang about her design journey, her favorite creations and what’s next for Cereal Artist. Keep scrolling to read the full conversation.
Name: Vivian Huang
Location: Toronto, Canada
Occupation: Multidisciplinary Artist and Designer
When did you get into design and upcycling?
I started my art and design journey in October of 2019, but ever since I was young I have always loved art. In school, I did really well in arts and crafts and drawing classes. That’s when I knew this was what I wanted to do someday.
Have you always been into sneakers, or is that an interest that developed over time?
Growing up, I wore sneakers often as I was quite active. Then when I started working in a sneaker store back in 2014, I started to view sneakers differently through the different designs and styles beyond their functionality. Since then, I’ve been slowly collecting sneakers that caught my attention and now I have a lot.
When did you get the idea to merge sneakers with art?
With my art, I’m always looking for the next innovative idea. I love to mix mediums and repurpose things into something completely different. Since I love sneakers, I thought I’d challenge myself to merge them with art.
How do you come up with ideas for new designs?
I love going to fabric stores, arts and crafts stores, hardware and furniture stores to just browse for materials and things that will spark some ideas to me. I also browse online a lot to look at what’s already out there that I like, but find ways to twist and turn them into something new that I haven’t seen.
You have featured a lot of different brands in your work. What would be your dream collaboration?
I’d love an opportunity to collaborate with any sneaker, streetwear or sports brands to create my own sneakers and maybe even a clothing capsule, too.
What has been your favorite creation so far?
It’s hard to choose! I’d say some of my top favorites are the PUMA flower bag I created recently for sure, my jelly Jordan, and the football cap I made with footballs that was commissioned by the Toronto Argonauts.
Do you have plans to launch a brand in the future?
I’d love to! I am working on incorporating more fashion designs into my art, which I have no experience in. It might take me some time to figure out, but launching my own brand in the future will be a dream.
What advice do you have for people breaking into the DIY and upcycling space?
Be authentic and work hard to come up with your own unique ideas. A lot of people are just copying what’s on trend these days. Sure, it might be trendy, but then you’re just one of many. Challenge yourself, have fun and be you!
