Background & Inspiration

Earlier in my design career, I kept telling myself I wasn’t an illustrator—though deep down, I knew I wanted to be. It took some practice and patience to step into that role, and the banana motif became my first real commitment to sketching without giving up. It’s funny how something that seems so simple can be so easy to mess up. Once I got it right (at least by my own standards), I decided to celebrate by submitting it to Bucketfeet. My thinking was: if I love it, someone else might too, right?

About Bucketfeet

Bucketfeet was a footwear brand built around artist-designed sneakers, giving independent creatives a platform to turn their illustrations into wearable art. The brand collaborated with artists from all over the world, producing limited-edition designs that made everyday shoes feel like a canvas.

Design Process

I experimented with the scale and arrangement of the bananas, making sure the pattern felt dynamic and fun without leaning too childish. I also wanted to introduce just the right amount of color to keep it wearable.

Outcome & Reflection

I was beyond excited when Bucketfeet notified me that my banana pattern had been chosen for their online catalog. Seeing my work on a physical product—especially one people could wear day in and day out—was incredible. Their mission of celebrating independent artists aligned perfectly with my own creative vision, and this collaboration reinforced my passion for art in a way I really needed at that stage in my career. From initial sketches to spotting my design on someone’s feet, it was an unforgettable reminder that a little patience and a lot of heart can go a long way.