How would you define your identity as a designer and how did you come to embrace it fully in your work?

It comes down to the shape of the heels and their aesthetic balance, which might look un-balance at first glance. This comes from the spirit of rebellion found in each design, which gives a feeling of discomfort and strong presence not only as shoes but also when they are worn.


When you were in London, what was it about John Moore’s work and the House of Beauty and Culture that resonated so deeply with you as a young designer?

Their originality and DIY spirit. I felt a strong message from their creations even if they weren’t trying to include one in them.

 

My identity as a designer is expressed primarily through the shape of the heels and their aesthetic balance, which at first glance might seem unbalanced. This reflects the spirit of rebellion inherent in each of my designs, capable of conveying a feeling of discomfort but also a strong presence, not only as objects but especially when worn.

Shoes are usually a very traditional category. What does “orthodoxy” in footwear mean to you, and why is it important to push past it?

Shoes are equipment that supports our weight and assists walking. Adding comfort and functionality into the equipment - that is the “orthodoxy” for me.


Your ‘teeth shoes’ and doubled-up derbies are highly imaginative. How do you balance humor, horror, and wearability in your surreal designs? And more importantly, where do you get your inspiration from?

The traditional foundation of shoemaking is always important even in surreal designs. I use addition and subtraction to the foundation, and complete the designs with combining parts like LEGO blocks. After this process, the shoes can be made to be worn.

 

The meticulous work and traditional shoemaking techniques must be passed down as a legacy for the future. However, designers must also have the courage to think beyond the limits of tradition to achieve new skills and results never seen before in the world of shoes.

Your work shows a deep respect for traditional leather shoe-making, yet it constantly evolves. What part of traditional craftsmanship do you feel is essential to preserve, and what do you feel must be challenged or reimagined?

The polite work and traditional techniques must be a legacy for the future. Shoe designers need to think outside the box of traditional shoemaking to achieve skills no one has ever had before. 


Now that your work is gaining international attention and commercial success, how do you stay connected to the original punk spirit of Kids Love Gaite?

I don’t get distracted by hype, keep going my way and keep creating the shoes I want to make.