ART SHOES
Mark Carter hand cobbles the funkiest shoes to be found anywhere in the wearable art world. Each and every shoe is handmade and hand-painted by both Mark and his wife, Cody. These shoes are not only arty but durable. Each design is painted on unfinished leather and then sealed, making the image waterproof.
Born in England, Mark moved to London in 1984 looking for work. Just out of art school, he stumbled across a shoe shop and signed on to paint shoes for shoemakers just arrived from Zimbabwe. The South Africans taught him all they knew…and much more. Mark eventually acquired his own equipment and sense of style. He then made a move to the States where he met his wife, Cody.
Cody studied fine art at the University of Arizona in Tucson. With a painting degree in hand, she soon met Mark, who was seeking out someone to help with the artwork on the shoes. Their talents and lives went hand in hand and that’s where they are today…Creating the most outrageous kicks you’ll find anywhere!
The shoes come in a variety of high top and low top lace styles for men and women as well as Mary Jane sandal models. Put on a pair and you’ll remember that your feet aren’t just for walking….they are also for dancing.
Mark and Cody feel everyone deserves happy feet and a reason to smile, so pass it on!
CARING FOR YOUR SHOES…
First of all, they’re more durable than you think. Fear no rain, puddles, or snow drifts. They are water resistant and with a little care, can remain in good condition for many years.
We buy hides of pre-dyed leathers (primarily cow hides, bull hides, and pig skins -nothing exotic…); cut out the desired pieces; paint the flat toe box; and sew the shoe together. These leathers are permanently colored and very durable
Although you can still scuff the toes, like any shoe, the paint seeps into the very porous unfinished leather down below your shoes. Initially they will look shiny due to this protective layer. Over time, the sheen diminishes. To bring the sheen back, polish with a clear leather polish (e.g. Saddle Soap). In a pinch Pledge works just fine – sprayed on the toe and then wiped off.
Many people comment on how lightweight our shoes are. For the most part, this can be attributed to the fact that we use synthetic rubber soling which is bendable, cushy, and hard-wearing. Because we make every shoe from scratch, we are always available to re-sole, or make repairs.
