Today we’d like to introduce you to Christan Seidle.
Hi Christan, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have been creating as far back as I can remember. I was really into drawing as a child and my mom bought me every kind of “how to draw” book. Drawing really helped me learn how to feel more comfortable with paint. I painted a lot in high school and when I moved to Fort Lauderdale for school at the Art Institute, my passion for painting fell on the back burner.
Fast forward to 2011, I was managing a shoe store and we were hosting a Tom’s ‘Style Your Sole’ Party. The main idea was that you would purchase a pair of Tom’s shoes and pay a small fee to have them customized by an artist. One of the artists that was scheduled to paint didn’t show up and my boss asked me to step in as a backup. At the time, I was terrified at the thought of painting in front of anyone, let alone for money. The event turned out great and I overcame all my fears and doubts.
For the last ten years, I have been painting shoes for people all over the world. I started off painting small and simple requests and have worked my way up to painting more realism and portraiture projects. I thrive on tiny details because I consider myself a perfectionist when it comes to my work.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I would say overall that it’s been a pretty smooth road throughout my journey. I’ve had SO much support. My biggest struggle is internal. I’m constantly doubting what I know I’m capable of because I’m afraid of failing. The funniest thing is that I don’t think I’ve really failed yet, so it’s kind of joke to myself.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an artist and I specialize in custom hand-painted shoes. My favorite things to paint are pet portraits and anything with a ridiculous amount of detail. I paint on all different types of shoes but I prefer canvas over leather. I’m most proud of a pair of Sepultura Vans I painted in 2019. The artwork is from their album ‘Arise’. It was so hard to part ways with that pair when they were finished because I felt so connected to them. Feeling proud of something you create is a really special feeling that’s very personal. It’s hard to describe but it’s beautiful when it happens.
I think what sets me apart from others is that while I’m painting shoes for my customer, I’m also connecting with them on a personal level and it creates a really unique experience.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Believe in yourself and what you’re capable of. It sounds so cliche, but it’s true. Every time I convinced myself I couldn’t paint something, it always turned out beautifully and I was constantly surprising myself.
Contact Info:
- Email: 7maryart@gmail.com
- Website: www.7maryart.bigcartel.com
- Instagram: @7maryart
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/7maryart
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Tfhnkn8LOkmxFrB4nPjuA
