Photos – customculture.vans.com ©
Vans has announced this year’s top 50 semi-finalists for the Vans Custom Culture high school art competition. This year, 500 qualifying schools participated by designing two pairs of blank Vans shoes illustrating the themes of ‘Local Flavor’ and ‘Off The Wall.’ In conjunction with the shoe designs, participating high schools submitted an Impact Document reflecting how their school, class and community would be impacted by the winning prize.
Starting today at 8 a.m. PT through May 4 at 5 p.m. PT, individuals can visit customculture.vans.com to cast their vote for their favourite design and determine the five finalists who will compete to win the grand prize of $75,000 for their art program.
“This year’s top 50 designs offer a snapshot into the passion for design that is found in arts education programs around the country and harnesses a visual expression of the creativity that comes from our youth,” said Megan Klempa, Custom Culture Program Manager. “Vans Custom Culture reinforces our commitment to fueling the next generation’s creative minds and opens pathways for brighter and more colourful futures.”
Similar to years past, the public vote will help determine the top five finalists who will be in the running for the grand prize of $75,000. The winner of this year’s competition will receive a visit from Vans for a celebration on their school campus filled with art and music that will be brought to life in partnership with Journeys, Yoobi, Laguna College of Art + Design (LCAD) and Americans for the Arts (AFTA). The special event will culminate with a presentation of a $75,000 check for future arts education funding. The four runner-up schools will receive $10,000 and a special, limited-edition Vans gift for their participation.
Vans Custom Culture competition continues to empower high school students and individuals across the country to embrace creativity. With schools already suffering from their art programs being cut, Vans wants to make more of an impact on the community and target the schools who need additional funds the most.
