JESSE THE PUMA SUEDE INSPIRED AVATAR FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Introducing "Jesse," the dynamic Puma Suede-inspired Avatar. Named in homage to the remarkable African American sprinter, Jesse Owens, who blazed a trail in 1936 by becoming one of the earliest African Americans to secure an endorsement from The Dazzler Brothers Shoe Factory. This historic partnership not only catapulted Jesse to athletic stardom but also ignited a transformational split, ultimately giving rise to the iconic sportswear juggernauts, Puma and Adidas. "Jesse," the embodiment of Puma Suede's timeless influence, is a testament to this extraordinary journey, created by the talented artist Karla Cornwall. An image of Jesse was displayed in the Puma flagship store in Carnaby Street in London during Black history Month.
official judge for the notting hill carnival 2023
August brought thrilling moments for Karla Cornwall when she was invited to serve as one of the official judges for this year's Notting Hill Carnival. Being part of the event was an incredible experience for Karla, offering a first-hand view of the intricate work and efforts behind the scenes of this iconic and historic celebration.
TREAD PORTRAIT OF THE TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO HIGH COMMISSIONER
In gratitude for the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission's steadfast support over the years, Karla presented the High Commissioner with a unique thread portrait as a token of her appreciation. The High Commissioner was delighted and deeply moved by the thoughtful gift.
THE TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO HIGH COMMISSION LUNCHEON.
Karla received an invitation from the Trinidad High Commission to exhibit her artwork at their Luncheon. Her pieces were admired by distinguished members of the Trinidad and Tobago diaspora, including acclaimed figures such as the talented singer-songwriter Billy Ocean and Baroness Floella Benjamin, the Trinidadian-British multi-talented personality encompassing acting, singing, presenting, writing, and politics, among others.
Madam trinity the hummingbird has arrived.
At the start of January 2023, Karla Cornwall found herself amidst an incredible moment. Madam Trinity had just made her debut at the prestigious Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in London. Standing tall and graceful at the entrance of her permanent home. She effortlessly charms the Trinidad and Tobago diaspora who visit the premises.
ACHIEVER AWARD
In October 2022 Karla was recognised for her achievements in the creative industry by the Trinidad and Tobago Diaspora at the Tabernacle in West London. Her work was well received.
“FLOW THE ART OF LETTING GO.”
In June/July 2022 for two weeks “Flow the Art of Letting Go” was Karla Cornwall’s first solo exhibition which was a big success. Held in the vibrant area of South Kensington 5 mins away from the V&A at Campbell’s of London Pop Up Gallery. This exhibition embarked on her spiritual journey, which she channels through her creative practice. Bringing the visitors into her mesmerizing world of textures and vibrancy. Inspired by her fashion background having studied at London College of Fashion and her love of fabrics, this has influenced a wonderful manifestation of haberdashery heaven, including colourful threads, embellishments, synthetic wools, denim etc, displayed on a variety of different platforms fusing fashion with the arts. Karla takes you through the process showing how challenges can be rewarding, self-belief, perseverance is key and through adversity you can end up discovering your true purpose, one that will set your soul free.
Based on the amazing response of over hundreds of visitors who experienced the exhibition, Karla is planning on putting on the show again in the near future. Also, she will be looking at holding art therapy classes for kids and adults next year.
Click the button below to see highlights and testimonial from the show.
CUSTOM DENIM NIKE VAPOUR MAX OFF WHITE
Word on the feet sneaker Community featured an article on Karla’s latest denim Nike Vapour-Max custom.
MUSIQ SOULCHILD
In October 2019 Karla was commissioned by legendary Hip-Hop Artist Musiq Soulchild to customise a pair of Nike Air Force 1 in distressed denim. Musiq wore these sneakers on the green carpet at the 2019 BET AWARDS and at the BET Soul-train Awards in 2021. She also customised two more pairs one was another pair of Nike Dunks which he wore onstage performing his tribute to Hip Hop Artist Lil Kim. And a pair of Timberlands in distressed denim.
Checkout Karla’s portfolio of sneakers she did for Musiq, along with all her other customs she’s done in the past.
THE HERE AND NOW EXHIBITION
In March 2019 Karla exhibited her beautiful intricate mannequin Constraints at the group exhibition called "The here and now." At the OXO Tower Southbank.
sole seekers
Karla took part in the first UK Sneaker documentary called Sole seekers. The Premier was at the Brixton Ritzy Cinema on 24th August 2018 and was well received. Click below to see the highlights from the premier.
BLACK PANTHER
In Feb 2018 Karla exhibited Black panther inspired sculpture called Amethyst at the BFI Southbank for the premier of the Black Panther Movie, with the director in attendance London.
EMOTIONS IN COLOUR
In November 2017 After their successful joint exhibition show back in July called “Emotions in Colour.” Karla and Ainsley Yearwood held their show at the prestigious Trinidad and Tobago High Commission Belgrave square London. Karla created a thread portrait of The Trinidad Prime Minister Keith Rowley and presented it to the Trinidad High Commissioner Orville London.
EMOTIONS IN COLOUR
June - July 2017 Karla took part in a joint exhibition with talented artist Ainsley Yearwood called “Emotions in Colour.” At Campbells of London Master Framers and Art Gallery, South Kensington, London.
CREP CITY
Oct 2015 Karla exhibited Prophecious Adidas inspired superhero sculpture/avatar installation, at Crep City sneaker event in Truman Brewery London England.
vans and footasylum collaboration
In April 2015 Karla was one of the six artists chosen by Footasylum for their collaboration with Vans #mycitymyvan competition. Her sneaker was showcased in the Oxford Circus store and was one of the competition prizes.
FEMME FIERCE
March 2015 Karla exhibited a live installation fusing art and sneaker customisation, at the world's largest street art and graffiti event called Femme Fierce. Waterloo London England.
GQ Magazine
In 2014, Karla tested out her new technique that she created called Thread blending on a more intricate image. So, she re-created and gifted a Thread portrait of The British GQ Magazine for their 25th Anniversary cover of Rhianna. Impressed by her work GQ posted it on their official Twitter page.
MEETING MORRIS CHESTNUT
In 2012, being in her creative experimental stages with hand embroidery Karla had the opportunity to create a beautiful, intricate hand embroidery Thread portrait for American actor Morris Chestnut.