#studiiyo23

Know that feeling when you realize you’ve just found the perfect way to spend your day? Sunday’s sunshine not only burned up the doom and gloom from the previous week’s rain apocalypse, but attained perfection with a fun fusion of art, fashion, and true shoe love. What is this magical discovery you ask? None other than the third installment of the Twin Cities Sneaker Art Xchange (TCSAX for reference) which took place at The Cabooze. As a first timer, I wasn’t sure quite what I would walk into but the sum of the parts was an interesting concept. The stage was a continuous string of rockin’ beats from either the DJ’s or one of the many hip-hop artists. Sneakerheads and art lovers chilled on the sides of the room taking in the scene while sipping a drink. Others scurried around carrying small towers of shoeboxes, their expressions caught between a mixed state of glee and panic at trying to balance their numerous boxes of fresh and exclusive kicks. You could almost hear the snapbacks and independent clothing labels calling your name, beckoning you with their vibrant and eccentric designs (I may have caved and bought myself a hat). The vendors were super cool and willing to answer any questions for them about their line and inspiration behind certain designs. Tons of people sported their new shoes, hats or tees as the beats thumped on the background.

The hip-hop portion was also incredible and went on throughout the entire event. It varied between one-person acts all the way up to four or five group member performances. The beats flowed and words jived; there was even some free styling, which is always an impressive feat to witness. The strong pride and support for Minneapolis’s fantastic hip-hop scene was obvious and emanated through the crowd like smoke. Of course, we can’t forget about the art! While shoes and clothes are their own form of art and décor, visual artists had booths where they sold their impressive creations. Ryan Fors had a ton of sports-themed prints that were made using a variety of  spray paint and stenciling. Guests were able to either buy prints or purchase a record that had been innovatively remade into a brilliant work of art. TCSAX3’s unique fusion has made my ‘can’t-live-without-attending-this-event-once-a-year’ list. Yes that’s a ridiculous name for a list, but this event is also ridiculously amazing and you do not want to miss it next year! There is a little something for everyone at TCSAX.

Art on a record by Ryan Fors