Visual Artist Nick Smith Presents the ‘POLYTHEISM’ of Sneaker Culture

Visual artist Nick Smith is exhibiting a new collection of artworks titled POLYTHEISM that questions society’s fascination with sneakers. Smith presents 17 different sneakers – 10 icons and seven grails – in his distinct style of collaged colour chips and accompanying text.

‘Our choice of footwear often mirrors our life's journey, with some treading cautiously and others boldly leaping forward. Shoes not only provide comfort, protection, and a sense of enhanced capabilities but also act as a canvas for expressing our social and cultural identities,’ explains Smith.

‘By utilising the highly emotive and familiar language of biblical texts, I aim to emphasise the deep, almost worshipful connection people have with sneaker culture. The language of reverence and adoration, typically reserved for sacred scriptures, is applied to material possessions, creating a thought-provoking contrast that prompts viewers to question their values and priorities.’

The 10 pairs comprising the ‘Tenant of Fame’ include classics such as the Converse Chuck Taylor and Nike Air Max 1. There are also seven additional pairs classified as ‘The Grails’, which include the AM1 ‘Albert Heijn’ and Nike SB Dunk High ‘FLOM’. Some of these pairs will be viewable in original sneaker form at the exhibition.

POLYTHEISM is presented by RHODES Contemporary Art and will be viewable and purchasable at 28 Henrietta St, London, WC2E 8NA, from May 16 to 21.