Washington, D.C. - January 14, 2008

Sneak Attack

Alex Vallcorba Custom-Painted Sneakers

Your boots were made for walking.

But your sneakers? They were made for painting.

D.C.-based artist Alex Vallcorba is taking his brush to the sneaks. He starts with a sit-down to get an idea of what you’re looking for — so pastel flower types don’t end up stomping around in superheros. After sketching an image you both like, he transposes the image using Angelus acrylic paint, a special water- and chip-proof formula designed for leather.

If you can’t make up your mind, Vallcorba has tried-and-true templates to choose from. We like the bright yellow Kill Bill, the monkey-adorned Mucha Marcha, and the black and white Old School.

The kicks aren’t for everyone, but they’ll thrill the right urban-minded dandy.

Are you ready, Alex? Start painting.

Alex Vallcorba (202-403-4219 or alex@vallcorbaink.com). To see styles, go to vallcorbaink.com.