Live Painting & Custom Sneakers for Nissan’s 2025 Kicks Media Drive Program in Santa Barbara
When Nissan launched their new 2025 Kicks vehicle, they wanted an event that went beyond showcasing the car; they wanted to create a memorable experience that blended art, creativity, and personal connection for their media guests. To bring this vision to life, Nissan flew me and another artist to California to collaborate on creating custom sneakers for guests attending their exclusive media drive program. This unique activation allowed us to combine our artistic talents with the personal stories of attendees, resulting in unforgettable, one-of-a-kind sneakers.
A Unique Kicks Experience
The invite-only media drive program gave automotive journalists the opportunity to test drive the 2025 Kicks while enjoying a curated dinner experience. Nissan’s goal was to create an event that went beyond the car itself, leaving attendees with something tangible to remember the experience by. That’s where the custom sneakers came in—a creative way to pair the innovation of the 2025 Kicks vehicle with their own personalized kicks for each guest.
Personalized Sneakers Inspired by Guests
The customization process started each day as guests checked into the hotel. We met with each attendee individually, taking the time to learn about their personal style, favorite colors, interests, and even their connection to the automotive world. These conversations became the foundation of each sneaker design, ensuring that the final product was as unique as the person wearing it.
In the evenings during dinner, we brought these designs to life through live painting sessions. Working in real-time allowed guests to see the artistic process unfold, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation as their custom kicks came together. Each pair of sneakers was designed to reflect the personality and preferences of its owner, while still tying back to the sleek and innovative spirit of the 2025 Kicks.
The Surprise Reveal
At the end of the evening, we presented the finished sneakers to the guests, surprising them with their personalized creations. Seeing their reactions was one of the most rewarding parts of the experience. Each pair of custom kicks became more than just a piece of custom footwear—they were a reminder of their time at the event with Nissan.
Blending Art and Innovation
This collaboration with Nissan showcased how custom artistry can elevate a brand experience. By combining the creativity of live customization with the personal connection of one-on-one design consultations, we created something that resonated with attendees and left a lasting impression.
Reflecting Thoughts
The 2025 Kicks media drive program was more than just a vehicle launch—it was an opportunity to merge art, personalization, and innovation in a way that celebrated both the product and the people experiencing it. I’m grateful to Nissan for trusting me with this project and for giving me the opportunity to create something special and personal for their guests. It was a milestone collaboration for my art career that won’t be forgotten anytime soon!
If you’re looking to combine creativity with experiential branding, let’s connect! I’d love to bring your brand’s vision to life through custom art and unforgettable live activations.