Back in 2011, Nike released the Nike Mag, a shoe based on those worn by Marty McFly in Back to the Future Part II.
Only 1500 pairs were made available online, at a staggering $9000 each.
One of these pairs were purchased by Brisbane-born, New York-based artist CJ Hendry, but not so she could wear them.
Instead, Hendry dipped them in paint.
Photographed them.
And then drew a large-scale sketch based on the image.
Using only pens.
That noise effect on the image? She created that too, by hand.
Hendry auctioned the work at the Miami Scope Art Fair in December 2015, with all profits being used to buy shoes for children in New York.
While many were amazed by her unique approach and incredible attention to detail, sneakerheads lost their cool.
“I love your art and you are amazing but seriously?…Only 1,500 ever made and you’re ruining them like that?…they’re art in themselves…so many people would have loved these, but no one has 8,000+ just lying around…you’re fortunate enough to get a pair and you would dip yours in paint?!! You might as well have poured paint all over $8,000 cash and call that art…” cried Instagram user mollteaserbunny.
“Just wanted to point out that when I choose an object to sketch I don’t work with that brand, I buy the product and showcase it my own way,” Hendry later stated.
“I am more focused on creating insane visual experiences at shows and selling one off originals. I didn’t get into this to be bossed around by brands and flood you with advertising, I just draw cool shit.”
So what do you think it is? Art or abuse?
Personally, I think “cool shit” is spot on.
You can check out more of CJ Hendry’s work over on her Instagram account.