Detroit, Michigan – The second annual Martk’d Invitational, a celebration of creativity and artistry, commenced in Detroit, showcasing the talents of the city’s most artistic students. Hosted by Pensole Lewis, the Detroit Pistons, Stackwell, Reebok, and Microsoft, the event drew attention to the intersection of art and footwear design.

Inspiring Designs by Detroit’s High School Students

Dom Porter, a talented artist from Detroit, found himself among the finalists for the second consecutive year. Despite not knowing the theme of this year’s contest in advance, Porter’s creativity shone through, earning him a spot among the top 40 high school students aged 15 to 19 selected to participate in the competition.

A Brainchild of Dion Walcott

The brainchild behind the Martk’d Invitational, Dion Walcott, emphasized the event’s goal of merging art with footwear while fostering community engagement. With talent submissions doubling since its inception, the competition has become a platform for Detroit’s youth to showcase their artistic prowess.

From Concept to Creation

The competition kicked off in early March as contestants were tasked with transforming white sneakers within a tight 45-minute time frame. Finalists then advanced to a one-day art and color design workshop, culminating in the presentation of their final designs in front of judges and spectators.

Recognition and Support from Sponsors

Reebok, the main sponsor of the invitational, pledged to produce the top three designs on sneakers. Microsoft, Stackwell, and the Detroit Pistons also played pivotal roles in hosting and supporting the event, underscoring their commitment to fostering creativity within the local community.

Emphasizing Narrative and Representation

Tamar Davis, responsible for marketing at the Detroit Pistons, highlighted the importance of storytelling in the design process, echoing Walcott’s sentiments. Last year’s competition saw a 15-year-old artist incorporating her dyslexia into her illustrations, showcasing the power of personal narrative in artistic expression.

Cultivating Diversity and Inclusion

For Walcott and Davis, the Martk’d Invitational represents more than just a competition; it’s a symbol of belief in the creative potential of Detroit’s youth. With a focus on celebrating Black and Brown talent, the event aims to address the lack of representation behind the scenes in the creative industry.

Empowering Detroit’s Youth Through Art

The Martk’d Invitational not only provides a platform for young artists to showcase their talent but also fosters a sense of community and empowerment. By merging art with footwear design and emphasizing personal narrative, the event not only celebrates creativity but also champions diversity and inclusion within the industry.

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