Art has the power to tell stories that words alone cannot.

Through Sole Purpose – a creative collaboration between RunDNA and Hutt St Centre – art, fashion and philanthropy come together to support people experiencing homelessness in South Australia.

Bringing together thirteen artists, including two extremely talented visitors from Hutt St Centre, the Sole Purpose project challenged the artists to transform a classic pair of white New Balance 624 sneakers into a one-of-a-kind artwork.

Using a wide range of techniques, including shoe deconstruction, spray painting, and intricate fabric weaving, each shoe has been transformed into a unique visual representation of identity, resilience in the face of challenge, and hope for a future of homefulness.

Among the artists was Aaron, a regular visitor of Hutt St Centre who is often found painting in our Creative Hub.

For Aaron, taking part in Sole Purpose was about more than creating art. It was an opportunity to communicate his journey on the shoes and how art is changing his life for the better.

“Someone famous once said every journey starts with that first single step. This is a first step for me. I’ve found real enjoyment in creating, and experience almost a true meditative inner peace when working on my art.”

I wasn’t interested in painting or drawing at all, until about two years ago when I walked into the Creative Hub. I tentatively started with water colour and am now playing with abstract
colourful acrylic works.”

The finished artworks were unveiled at Walk a Mile in My Boots on 7 August and are now on display at RunDNA’s retail stores and open to public bidding until the end of September, with all funds raised helping provide essential services at Hutt St Centre.

Check out the shoes here.