Have you met TTK?
07.19.10
I picked up the latest issue of Slam magazine with the jump man 23 himself. .Michael Jordan on the cover. I read the article about Jordan then proceed to do the girl thing and look at the pretty pictures in the magazine. While skimming through the latest fashions in t shirts and sneakers, I stumbled across the illest looking vandals. Upon closer inspection I realized these were customized dunks (damn there goes my pair). The artist is simply known as TTK an acronym he came up with as a kid. Oddly, there was no picture of TTK. Being somewhat familiar with the graffiti culture I assumed TTK was a former if not still graff artist. I kept looking at the small picture of the customized vandals, the art work was so detailed and precise that I had to learn more about this artist not to mention I need to send him a pair of kicks to customize for me!
I had the pleasure of actually talking to TTK himself not so long ago, let me say that he was so laid back, cool and humble that it was like speaking to an old friend.
Finding inspiration from comic books to clothing, TTK has carved himself a nice spot in the sneaker game as one of its top customizers. His knack for detailed artwork combinedwith his fearless approach to using colors that folks would fear would put them on the worst dressed list if they walked out of the house in them, has made him one of the most sought after artist in the game. “When I am working on a pair of sneakers, I like to add my own touches in there while keeping the customer’s style in mind as well”. But why sneakers? “First and foremost I am an artist, sneakers just happened to be the canvas that put me in the public’s eye”. Thank you to that!!!
Sneaker customization has allowed TTK’s fan base to grow over several continents, “People as far out as Japan, have contracted me to do some work on their sneakers”. We the people know a good thing when we see it and we seem to love TTK’s work. I wondered to myself if TTK has ever showcased artwork outside of sneakers so I asked and was presently surprised with his response. “I will actually be showcasing my latest project called Urban Equestrian. This collection is based on Polo Ralph Lauren and its influence in street culture”. I loved the oxymoron he used and I am excited to get another glimpse into TTK’s colorful world.
TTk and I ended the interview with some friendly banter on which comic book the other should read and appreciate the artistry in. Like I stated earlier, TTK is a pretty cool guy and he can definitely count on me to support his artistic endeavors! I may not know much but I do know a great talent when I come across it. If you want learn more about TTK and his upcoming show, please visit his website www.gottkgo.com.
