Takashi Murakami Reminisces on the NYC Streetwear Scene and How Vans Slip-Ons Became His Go-To Sneaker
The Japanese artist has worn through over 500 pairs.
Following the HYPEBEAST x Vans video series featuring Brain Dead and Saint Alfred, we journey to Japan to catch up with Takashi Murakami. Known to captivate artists and creatives alike with his artistic anime approach to art and signature “superflat” technique, the world-renowned artist recalls utilizing his “Flowers and Skulls” print for the Classic Slip-On. Murakami shares his love for the Vans culture as he’s worn about 500 white pairs everyday at his studio for the past 10 years, making the classic silhouette his shoe of choice.
Watch the video above and find out how ’90s NYC street culture piqued Murakami’s interest as he recounts developing the design patterns for the Classic Slip-On. Head over to Vans for more information on how the Classic Slip-Ons are ‘Not Just One Thing’ and learn more about his retrospective at MCA Chicago here.
