For Women's History Month, we interviewed some of the female artists, sneaker customizers, and leathercraft specialists in our Angelus community!
From bold colorways to intricate details, these artists bring a unique perspective to their craft, transforming sneakers, bags, and leather goods into wearable masterpieces. Read all about these creators' work below:
Jada from the Block
Question:
What inspires your art, and how has your creative journey evolved over time?
Jada: I am constantly being inspired by the things I see in the world, whether it's a color palette on my shampoo bottle or a pattern I see on a plant! I am also often inspired by seeing what other artists do (not even just sneaker artists but artists of all kinds). My journey has evolved a lot since I first started out trying to copy things I'd see on etsy to now having my own unique style with bold colors and busy patterns!
Question:
What advice would you give to other women looking to pursue their passion in sneaker customization, leatherwork, or other creative fields?
Jada: Create like YOU! Trying to be like other artists won't get you anywhere cause the following that enjoys that style already follows them! You have to find what makes you you which can take time but i promise it will come!
Izzy Benavidez
Question:
What inspires your art, and how has your creative journey evolved over time?
Izzy: A huge inspiration for my art is my parents. I really couldn’t be where I am today without their unwavering support. When I first shared my passion for art with them, they didn’t hesitate to support me and root for me on my artistic journey. They invested so much in me, and for that, they will always be my biggest inspiration. (Hi Mom & Dad, I made it!)
In terms of my evolution as an artist, it’s definitely been a journey of exploring new techniques and self-discovery. I remember when I first started customizing, I often wondered how artists cultivate their unique style. Five years later, I can confidently say that I've found my own distinct style, to the point where you can look at a piece and say, "Yeah, Izzy definitely made those!"
Question:
What advice would you give to other women looking to pursue their passion in sneaker customization, leatherwork, or other creative fields?
Izzy: Never be afraid to chase after your dreams. It may be daunting in the beginning, but what's more terrifying are the potential "what ifs" you may have if you don't try. Sometimes, life may get tough, and you may get discouraged, but to get through those tough moments, think of the goals you set out to achieve. Never be afraid to shine, because anyone can – even you!
Moe Kickz
Question:
What inspires your art, and how has your creative journey evolved over time?
Moe: I’m very proud to be Mexican American and over the last few years I’ve been creating work that reflects how proud I am. In doing so, my work has grabbed the attention of those who are also proud of their heritage and has evolved into helping people display who they are and where they come from.
Question:
What advice would you give to other women looking to pursue their passion in sneaker customization, leatherwork, or other creative fields?
Moe: To other women looking to pursue their passion in sneaker customization, I would advise you to find other female artists whose art you admire and reach out or show love to their page. Get to know us so we can stick together and create a safe community where we can learn from each other, collaborate or even create new friendships!
Cassy Kustoms
Question:
What inspires your art, and how has your creative journey evolved over time?
Cassy: I started customizing at age sixteen, and I can’t believe how far art has taken me. As I grow as an artist, I’ve been finding new ways to blend all my passions—painting, video creation, graphic design, and photography. There’s always an art project on my mind and I want to do them all! My motivation comes from the desire to build a career that aligns with my passions and grows as I discover new opportunities.
Question:
What advice would you give to other women looking to pursue their passion in sneaker customization, leatherwork, or other creative fields?
Cassy: By doing what I love, I’ve had opportunities to do more of what I love, and that all started with putting myself out there! My advice to any creative out there is to become your own niche, rather than fitting into other niches. I’ve seen so many artists thrive once they stop following trends and start making what actually excites them. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who inspire and support you. Create projects that excite you, but also challenge yourself with work that pushes your creativity. Don’t be afraid to say no to projects that don’t align with your vision. Balancing projects that spark your inspiration with those that push your boundaries will ultimately help you grow as an artist.
Kate Fitzgerald Gaudet
Question:
What inspires your art, and how has your creative journey evolved over time?
Kate: I am inspired to save leather goods by using creative restoration techniques because there are so many leather items that are discarded every day that could’ve been saved. I see so many patent leather and suede items that only need to be properly cleaned to be used again. A lot of the time people don’t understand that a good cleaning of a leather item can really save it from being thrown out. Well I used to just do this for my own leather goods. It has evolved so that now people send me their items to be restored. I’m sometimes given a lot of creative freedom and I love the idea of trying to figure out how to make dirty or damaged leather items look aesthetically pleasing again.
Question:
What advice would you give to other women looking to pursue their passion in sneaker customization, leatherwork, or other creative fields?
Kate: I would say the key comes down to practice. I practice all the time I still practice my ideas out on leather remnants. I practiced my ideas on damaged items of my own. I would just say that if you want to continue to grow always continue to practice your artwork and your ideas.
Sneaker Queens Customs
Question:
What inspires your art, and how has your creative journey evolved over time?
Mikaela: My art is inspired by the connection between nature, personal expression, and storytelling. I’ve always believed that every custom piece has the power to tell a truly unique story, whether it’s through color, texture, or intricate details. Over time, my journey has evolved from simply painting sneakers to creating wearable art that speaks for itself. I started customizing shoes as a way to express myself, but it has since grown into a deeper passion for pushing the boundaries of sneaker artistry and creating pieces that truly resonate with not only my clients and their personal stories, but with myself too. I realized over time that through my art practice, I’ve also evolved in a way that I don’t think I’d ever have been able to without it.
Question:
What advice would you give to other women looking to pursue their passion in sneaker customization, leatherwork, or other creative fields?
Mikaela: Don’t be afraid to take up space. Your perspective, creativity, and voice are valuable, and the industry needs more diverse artists bringing fresh ideas to the table to shake things up. Invest time in honing your craft, learning new techniques, and staying consistent with your work. Surround yourself with a supportive community, whether it’s other artists, mentors, or online groups that uplift and inspire you. Most importantly, trust in your unique artistic voice, your style and vision will always set you apart.
Custom By Sara
Question:
What inspires your art, and how has your creative journey evolved over time?
Sara: There are multiple things that inspire my art. The biggest influence is my passion for music and artists. I started with simpler designs, which gradually became more detailed as I gained experience. I invested in better quality materials and techniques.
Question:
What advice would you give to other women looking to pursue their passion in sneaker customization, leatherwork, or other creative fields?
Sara: My advice to other women looking to pursue their passion is: believe in your talent and don’t let anyone hold you back. Keep experimenting and make your dreams come true!!
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This Women's History Month, we recognize not only the women featured here but also every female artist who has ever picked up a brush, mixed colors, and brought their vision to life!
Want to be featured in our email newsletters or blog? Show us your work by tagging #AngelusDirect in your work posted on social media!