I live in a historic old manor in Germany that I inherited from my opa, which is also the location for my studio. Grandfather’s old farm from 1893 has been converted into a courtyard for artists. The large studio is located in the adjoining building.
I actually teach my drawing students here, regularly. These are children, young people and art students. I love my work and the daily hustle and bustle in my studio. Unfortunately, during COVID, I was often unable to teach my students, but I used this time and looked through my old historical boxes in my cellars. I love these old historical things like…letters, old things…
I came across a chest that was eaten up by woodworms and found a real treasure. It was a sewing machine from the 18th century, but a very special one …namely, for shoes. None of my ancestors had ever been a shoemaker. I started sewing and suddenly an idea occurred to me. I painted a face on canvas, cut out the piece of canvas, and sewed it onto my shoes. Some are also embroidered, and only antique historical fabric is used. My artist friends loved it!
I find it overwhelming how loved my shoes are. That makes me very happy. But the women who buy the shoes are also very special. I’m thinking of Romy, a circus performer from France, or Ronda from the USA. My first customer was Anna from Italy. Everyone invited me to their home. Somehow that is still the best thing—that I have met such wonderful women.
Now I can finally combine my passion for fashion with my beloved painting and create something with a high aesthetic value. I sell my shoes through different platforms, including Etsy.
