I can vividly remember drawing black checkerboards on the sides of my Vans “slip ons” back in the 80s…ok, might have even been late 70s. I was thrilled and honored to be asked to design a pair for the upcoming Vans Custom Culture contest! They are highlighting designers from all industries and encouraging high schools to register for the contest by March 1st. Entering its third year in 2012, Vans Custom Culture has inspired tens of thousands of students at more than 700 participating schools. Last year, Vans awarded $50K toward the art programs at Ward Melville High School (Long Island, NY)

My kids helped create this one-of-a-kind EC pair for display…I went for a flashy, party look by painting copper glitter and glueing bells around the seams. One shoe reads: LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED! and the other shoe reads: I’LL BE THERE WITH BELLS ON.  I couldn’t resist adding my signature stripes to the back. I hope these inspire many schools to sign up! spread the word and find details at www.vans.com/customculture