Wakanda shoes are those? In the Limited Edition T’Challa Designer Collectible Toy, Tracy Tubera has traded the Black Panther’s socks-and-sandals for some kingly kicks. (We’re certain Shuri would approve.)
Artist Statement: I have always loved the design and colors of SNEAKERS. The bright colors and intricate designs are the same reasons why I love COMIC BOOKS/SUPERHEROES. Also, there is always the story behind a certain Super Hero. Their SECRET ORIGIN. The amazing story of how a character got his/her powers. Or the incredible circumstances that caused a character to become a Super Hero. Most sneakers also have their own “Secret Origin”. The process that it took a designer to get to the final look of a sneaker. What inspired the look of a shoe. What influenced the use of certain materials or colors. So many things in common that I always felt needed to be explored.
These vinyl figures are what I call S.H.S. aka Super Heroes in Sneakers– two things that meant a lot to me growing up and still do to this day. Two completely different cultures mashed together to create a new visual of things most people wouldn’t normally see together. I always wondered what kicks my favorite Super Hero would wear. That’s why I would create these illustrations and now DESIGNER TOYS!
For my T’CHALLA piece I wanted him to look like he is caught in a moment of time. Leaping down to pounce on the enemy. T’CHALLA is wearing his Vibranium laced suit, with sneakers that I imagine would maximize his abilities. Sneakers that would help him run smoother and jump with some bounce. Sneakers fit for a KING! WAKANDA FOREVER!
About the Artist:
Tracy Tubera AKA the ÜBER ILLUSTRATOR SUPREME has a style that is a mix of graffiti, anime, and comic book art. His artwork has an acute attention to sharp, crisp line work with splashes of bright pop colors. He mixes pop culture imagery with his love for sneakers, Super Heroes, and humor to create imagery all his own.