Karhu Deconstructed, is a project I worked on while attending SCAD. I was commissioned by the Finnish sneaker company Karhu to create still-life photography for a couple of their running shoes in the midst of the pandemic. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I had limited resources—just my studio lights, camera, and the shoe components shipped from Karhu. I transformed my bedroom into a makeshift photo studio, clearing out furniture and setting up a backdrop to create the right atmosphere.
As I worked, I faced unexpected challenges, from lighting issues to arranging the shoe components dynamically. Despite these obstacles, I pushed through, experimenting with different angles and setups. Once the project was complete, I felt a sense of pride in what I had created. When Karhu shared my work on their Instagram and featured it in a blog, the response was overwhelming. Shortly after, I received a message from the curator of the TAHTO Olympic Sports Museum in Helsinki, expressing interest in my work.
Arrangements were made to print my photograph for their exhibition “Teknologia Muuttaa Tapojamme Liikkua,” which translates to “Technology Changes the Way We Move.” The exhibit ran for seven months, providing me with a unique opportunity to showcase my photography on an international stage and further solidifying my passion for capturing the essence of design and innovation in sports.
