More than sneakers

MANILA, Philippines - Fueling up the creative juices of people who are into fashion, sports and the arts, Converse Philippines conducted the first-ever CONS Project Manila, a one-day event that highlighted street art and Do-It-Yourself (DIY) skateboard ramp workshops, at the Pelota Court, BF Resort Village, Las Piñas City last Nov. 22.

The event was inspired by the new CONS Fall 2014 Sneaker Collection, which debuted last August.

An old space, which used to be a hangout place of creative activities, was transformed into a CONS space. The improved and decorated spot will serve as an avenue where skateboard enthusiasts, art junkies and the youth can hang out.

“The event aims to push the Filipino youth to their creative limits. It will allow them to refine and re-master their love for skateboarding and art. It gives them a chance to turn an undeveloped place into an avenue where young people can come together and enjoy,” said Kate Oliva, Converse Philippines marketing and advertising manager.

Converse has teamed up with two of the Philippines’ known street artists to turn a static and unadorned wall into an art piece. The street art workshop was headed by visual artist Rai Cruz and multi-disciplinary artist Nemo Aguila, both of whom have passion for street painting.

Converse transforms an old and untidy space into a Cons space spot where skateboard enthusiasts, art junkies and the youth can hang out

For Rai, street art goes beyond aesthetics. He defines it as something that “reactivates a benign space and transforms it into something that creates interaction.”

Since Converse is promoting the growth of skateboarding in the country, a DIY skateboard ramp workshop also took place.

Converse CONS Regional Skate brand ambassador and world-renowned skateboarder Jeff Gonzales led the participants in the workshop and was able to build ramps.

Like the CONS Project Manila, the new CONS collection is a re-mastered line of sneakers after years of continuous alterations and improvements. It keeps tabs with the changing times to be at par with the modern street culture and cater to its younger and more modern audience.

The contemporary take on the classic CONS roster promises a whole new twist without losing its identity. A small party with lively music, skateboarding and live graffiti culminated the successful event.