Off The Wall - Vans

Some things just stick with you. For me, it’s a pair of black-and-white checkered Vans.

Back when I was lifeguarding, I had a friend who wore those shoes everywhere. No socks, just bare ankles and a summer tan. They were his go-to for everything — beach days, coffee runs, late-night walks, spur-of-the-moment road trips. They weren’t just shoes. They were part of the vibe.

They were a little worn out, scuffed in all the right places, and honestly, kind of perfect. They had stories in them — days spent in the sun, laughs that turned into inside jokes, long talks by the water. They were simple, but full of life.

This painting is my way of capturing that time. The kind of summer that feels endless while you’re in it. No big plans, just good people, warm weather, and the freedom to do whatever. It’s a snapshot of those easygoing days when everything felt possible and nothing felt rushed.

Now, whenever I see a pair of those Vans, I think of him — and that whole chapter. It’s a nice reminder that some of the best memories are tied to the most ordinary things. Like a well-loved pair of shoes and a summer that left its mark.