Pratt Institute, Brooklyn NY

In 2011, while studying Industrial Design at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, I set out to explore the intersection of automotive power. The result was “The Hornet” — The strength and stance of my concept SUV I designed, inspired a high heel sculpted for other half of the vehicle design.

The Hornet SUV concept represented aggressive elegance: a bold stance, tight frame, and aerodynamic styling. I wanted the shoe to echo the very DNA of that —down to the angular silhouette, performance-based proportions, and the punchy, high-contrast color scheme of black and hazard yellow. Even the toe of the heel mimics the aggressive geometry of a bumper, while the stiletto heel forms a functional nod to a Hornet stinger. This wasn’t about fashion for fashion’s sake—it was storytelling in physical form.

This high heel was awarded Best in Show in shoe design at Pratt and later archived in the Schools Art of Design space, recognized for its innovation, form study, and unexpected fusion of disciplines. Although the original digital link is no longer available, this project stands as a cornerstone of my design journey—showing how function, storytelling, and bold identity can live in a single object.

Today, that same spirit lives on through my brand MIND—a platform where design isn’t just seen, but felt. Whether through murals, product concepts, or wearable art, I continue to explore where worlds collide—just like they did in The Hornet.