Pulled straight from the Harlem earth comes an art collection only Harlem could create — custom Air Force 1 sneakers reconceived by New York artists with paint pigment extracted from the farm produce of iconic non-profit Harlem Grown.
This is street culture meets agriculture and all proceeds directly support Harlem Grown’s mission to grow healthy children and communities.
Harlem Grown transforms abandoned lots into thriving urban farms across Harlem. Every single day, they inspire local children to lead healthy and ambitious lives through hands-on education in urban farming and nutrition.
By providing access to free healthy food and educational programming to thousands of people, Harlem Grown gives families more choices and more pathways to success.
AgriCulture 1 features an impressive line-up of contemporary New York artists — including Harlem born and raised, Lisa Whittington, Nigerian born and artist to the stars, Laolu Senbanjo, breakthrough Brooklyn artist Adrian Brandon, founder of Creative Era NYC Whitney House and a family collaboration from Lyne Lucien and Alex Caidor.
The unique collection is a collaboration project between Harlem Grown and non-traditional New York based creative studio, Tall Poppy.
The faces depicted on the side of the shoe represent collective responsibility and unity, highlighting the idea of individuals coming together to achieve common goals and make positive changes within their community.
- Laolu Senbanjo
Lisa Whittington’s art has inspired Hollywood directors, writers, and producers including Reggie Rock Bythewood — the producer was so moved by her Emmett Till artwork that he created the hit Apple TV series “Swagger.” Her work forms the main titles for the series.
The Impressions are all about impact, legacy and the power of authenticity. Harlem Grown reminds me that if you are creative and passionate, you have all the tools around you to make something beautiful. All around the shoes, you will find stamped impressions of leaves that I foraged around New York City.
- Adrian Brandon
The work is rooted in community and inspired by my vibrant upbringing in Haiti. I aim to expand the visual narrative and vocabulary around blackness to include the Caribbean voice. I believe that when I represent my community as we truly are, I not only honor my country, but I also preserve its history and legacy.
- Lyne Lucien and Alex Caidor
Inspired by the rich tapestry of Harlem, this footwear collection pays homage to Harlem Grown through its celebration of three integral facets: the lively spirit of Harlem's children, the historical significance of its farms, and the empowering words that resonate throughout the community.
- Whitney House
"Harlem Grown has been empowering children to lead healthy and ambitious lives since 2011. The AgriCulture 1 exhibition showcases what we in Harlem to a whole new audience — it’s street culture meets agriculture and we hope people take notice and support what we're doing.”
- Tony Hilley, Founder + Nicole Engel, Executive Director, Harlem Grown
