Iman Elmawey - Australian Painter Interview

What was the moment you first got drawn to sneakers, and which pair of sneakers triggered your passion?

A shoe that has my heart forever - Air Force 1s. I think a moment for me, and many others, was listening to ♪ Nelly - Air Force Ones ♪ growing up. Need I say more?

What’s one moment or trend in the history of sneaker culture that resonates with you?

It's hard to pinpoint over the years, sneakers have just become such cultural signifiers; I think about the musical influence in hip hop, basketball, and skating, ART! Working with Foot Locker on Nike campaigns has really put a special place in my heart for the brand.

The Nike "Dunk's Your Way" campaign was the first time I was recognized by such a huge corporation, and it magnified my love for the shoe so much, and with so many Dunk drops that year, the whole world began again.

What are some of the current pairs of sneakers in your rotation?

At the moment, I've curated a small selection of shoes that I rotate between. I just got a pair of Nike Vomera's in Oatmeal. ASICS UB2-S GEL-1130 has been a well-worn pair (hoping to replace it with some Hysteric Glamour, if my bank account wills it).

I rotate between my ACG Mountain Flys & my Air Nasu's a lot, too. A cherished pair is my Spartan Green Nike Dunk Highs -  but I've definitely cut down, just cause I see more value in switching between 4-5 pairs that I really, really love.

Please describe how it feels to you when you get and wear a new pair of kicks?

So like, is it weird to love the new shoe smell? ESPECIALLY Nikes. They have this distinct smell, iykyk.

What is one sneaker collaboration that doesn’t exist, but you wish/think should exist?

Me x Nike (; ONE DAY!

Nah but hear me out, an Andre 3000 Nike collab. Ideally, I'd love to see any of my creative friends with a collab, you know, someone with huge passion!

What are some of your favorite creators/designers or brands and why?

Delfin & Kohshin Finley are my favourite modern-day artists, with immense artistic talent. The skill level, wow.

Rayah from @bankrollonmywaist & @frosteddtipps, her work makes you feel like you don't have to settle for just one thing - like why did we grow up thinking we are only allowed one career path? Her skill set is profound.

Maddy Cablao from @MADMADEADL & Christina from @by__ct. So incredibly unique and unapologetically themselves!

What is your ultimate holy grail sneaker that you have not managed to acquire so far?

I've always wanted the Nike Stussy 'Cherry Dunks.' But a real grail of mine is the F/W 1999 Miu Miu Bubble sole sport sneakers!

What are some of your daily essentials or treasured items besides kicks?

A lot of my essentials are second-hand. Sometimes the fit is better, or more comfortable. Depends on the mood. I love my cargos, baggy shorts & utility jackets.

Where can people find you on social media?

Instagram: @imanelmawey

Website: http://www.imanelmawey.com/