Cardiff-born custom shoe artist, Tesni DeLuna, has seen her passion project evolve into a successful business, attracting clientele that includes global superstars such as Drake and Usher. Originally from Cardiff, Tesni’s journey as a shoe artist began three years ago and has since taken her across continents to Austin, Texas, where she currently resides.
Tesni’s artistic flair was discovered while working an early morning shift at a local gym in Austin. Engaging in her hobby of coloring during quiet hours, a gym client noticed her talent and requested a custom pair of Air Force trainers for his daughter. Little did Tesni know that this would be the catalyst for her burgeoning career as a shoe designer for the stars.
Despite holding a business degree, Tesni’s heart has always been in art. From painting to cake decorating, her various artistic pursuits paved the way for her current focus on shoe customization. She credits her success to the culmination of skills acquired from past hobbies, making shoe painting a natural fit for her creative expression.
The therapeutic and dynamic nature of shoe painting has kept Tesni captivated for over three years. Each shoe design presents a unique challenge, keeping her creativity flowing and mind engaged. Balancing her burgeoning business with a full-time job as a market manager, Tesni dedicates her evenings to fulfilling shoe commissions, sometimes working well into the early hours of the morning.
Tesni’s collaborative approach with clients sets her apart in the industry. By involving clients in the design process and meticulously tailoring each artwork to their preferences, she ensures that every pair of customized shoes is a reflection of the wearer’s personality. This personal touch resonates with her clientele and adds a special significance to each design.
The pinnacle of Tesni’s success came when her work caught the attention of a venue in Austin, leading to commissions for renowned artists like Lil Baby, Usher, and Drake. Her ability to infuse personal touches into each design, such as incorporating wheels into Usher’s shoes, showcases her dedication to creating unique and memorable pieces for her clients.
Looking ahead, Tesni aims to diversify her portfolio by collaborating with more female athletes and artists in 2025. With a dream to work with basketball star Caitlin Clark and retired heptathlete Jessica Ennis-Hill, Tesni envisions expanding her reach and showcasing her artistic prowess across various fields.
As Tesni continues to turn her passion into a full-time career, her growing waitlist and roster of celebrity clients demonstrate that the sky is the limit for this Welsh artist. With each brushstroke, she propels herself further into the world of high-profile shoe design, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Stay tuned as Tesni’s journey unfolds, promising more exciting collaborations and innovative designs in the years to come.