Cybernetic Steppers – How ALIVEFORM is Printing Footwear for the Future
2023 continues to mark a resurgence of footwear hype after a short hiatus, but instead of hyped sneaker releases fueled by big marketing budgets and collaborative partnerships, we are now seeing more of a focus on technicality, functionality, and storytelling like never before.
Proof of this comes from ALIVEFORM with their most recent ARMIS collection. As a series of 3D-printed shoes that combine organic nuances with technological advancements, this release is a true step forward for the industry.
ALIVEFORM, created by concept footwear collective Commeconception, is an experimental creative platform rather than just a brand. Reinventing the ideologies of footwear capabilities, ALIVEFORM is the mind behind the viral shoes, the MONSTERA STOMPER, that many would have seen across their Instagram feed in 2022. ALIVEFORM collides extraterrestrial shapes and forms but ground them with narrative-driven design. Creating a partnership between technology and organisms, the ARMIS is set to make as many waves as its predecessors.
With 4 models coming drenched in black, each iteration of the ARMIS collection takes on the appearance of an ultra-slick, futuristic silhouette reminiscent of a concept car with a creeping presence of organic growth manifesting itself out from them. With their staple strapline ‘grown not made’ the ARMIS collection truly captures this essence with its aesthetics and 3D printed qualities.
Accompanying the release is an editorial which pulls in CG-generated backgrounds transporting us to unexplored lands. Toying with perspectives, the shoot perfectly depicts the concept behind the shoe. Alongside the ARMIS collection, we also found ourselves gazing at products from RYAW. With both brands’ shared passion for nature and its relationship with humanity, this is a match made in heaven.
Credits:Z
Creative Direction: @aliveform.bio @ryaw_
CG Designer: @itsuki_nakatsukasa
Photography & Lighting: @iu_is_you
Model: @kousaeki
Assistant: @chrilililililil @commeconception
Special thanks: @avalonetokyo
