The artist behind the shoes
Made by hand. Made to tell a story.
Brandon McKinney is a footwear artist and maker based in Charlotte, North Carolina. A lifelong love of drawing and painting led him to customize an old pair of Air Force 1s in high school. What began with a brush and an idea has grown into a craft spanning hand-painted sneakers, reconstructed panels, and full bespoke shoemaking.
From selecting materials and cutting patterns to sewing, lasting, and finishing, Brandon takes a hands-on approach to every pair. His work brings together personal stories, nostalgia, and one-of-one design—footwear made with care, character, and a point of view of its own.