We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Luke Gomez a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Luke, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

My journey into sneaker customization starts back to when I was just 11 years old. It’s almost surreal to reminisce about it now, but I vividly remember the moment that sparked inspiration within me. It all began with a YouTube video, a glimpse into someone painting sneakers and turning them into works of art.

By the time the video reached its conclusion, all I could think was: “I’m going to do that.”

It didn’t just end there. No, I didn’t want to just customize sneakers but to excel, for my name to be among the best. Little did I know that this seemingly innocuous encounter with a YouTube video would set me on a journey of self-discovery, creativity, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Looking back now, I’m amazed that a wide-eyed 11-year-old with an idea, a dream, and my belief in God, would be the things that fuel my journey. And so, armed with nothing but a dream, I embarked on a journey that would forever alter the course of my life.

Luke, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Hi I’m Luke, the artist behind LKG Customs. My journey in the world of sneaker customization began at the age of 11. With a passion for sneakers and a knack for creativity, I dove headfirst into the art of customizing sneakers. By the time I hit 12, I had already crafted my first pair for CHH (Christian Hip Hop) artist, Miles Minnick.

Fast forward to today, and LKG Customs has evolved into a hub of artistic expression, catering to sneaker lovers of all ages and backgrounds. Based in Fresno, California, I’ve established myself as a pioneer in the realm of sneaker customization. But it’s not just about creating eye-catching sneakers; it’s about empowering individuals to unleash their creativity.

That’s why we offer immersive sneaker customizing workshops, where enthusiasts can learn the ins and outs of the craft. From basic techniques to advanced artistic methods, we provide the tools and guidance needed for participants to infuse their own unique flair into every pair they touch.

But my mission doesn’t stop there. As a sneaker artist, I’ve set out on a quest to create personalized kicks for every CHH artist out there. It’s not just about the sneakers; it’s about bridging the worlds of art and music, creating tangible expressions of inspiration and faith.

So whether you’re looking to rock a one-of-a-kind pair of sneakers or eager to dive into the world of sneaker customization yourself, LKG Customs is here to bring your vision to life. Join me on this journey where creativity knows no bounds, and every step is a work of art.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, one of the most fulfilling aspects of being a creative is the profound sense of confidence that comes with it. Having the unwavering belief in my abilities as an artist fuels my passion to create, innovate, and push boundaries. There’s something truly liberating about embracing the urge to bring an idea to life and knowing, without a shadow of doubt, that I have been blessed with the skills to execute it.

Moreover, the journey as a creative is as much about the connections forged as it is about the art itself. Initially, stepping into the creative realm can feel daunting, especially when surrounded by fellow artists whose talent shines brightly. Yet, as I carved my niche and established my presence, I discovered a vibrant community of like-minded individuals.

The bonds formed within this community are nothing short of extraordinary. What begins as mere acquaintanceship grows into profound collaborations and genuine friendships. It’s awe-inspiring to witness the collective support and camaraderie that permeates through the creative sphere. In this nurturing environment, fellow creatives aren’t just colleagues; they’re mentors, collaborators, and supporters, propelling each other toward greater heights of christlike artistic expression.

Now, the journey of a creative is not merely a solitary pursuit but a shared odyssey filled with endless possibilities and enriching connections. And as I continue to navigate “being a creative”, I am endlessly grateful for the confidence to create and the incredible souls who walk alongside me, each adding their unique perspective of creativity.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Ah, the amount of “No”‘s that echoed through my journey — it’s become a symbol of resilience and determination. As I am on the journey of growing LKG Customs, I had a vision: to empower individuals with the knowledge of applying creativity and artistry through sneaker customization. Three years into this passionate pursuit, the idea of hosting workshops felt like the perfect embodiment of my mission

At the age of 15, armed with nothing but determination and a dream, I set out to find a suitable venue here in Fresno to bring this vision to life. Accompanied by my mother and sister, I ventured into a promising warehouse space, its potential mirroring the grandeur of my aspirations. The tour was promising, brimming with possibilities, and the person guiding me through it seemed equally enthusiastic, offering suggestions and envisioning the myriad ways the space could be utilized. It felt like destiny had led me to the perfect venue for LKG Customs’ workshops.

But God had other plans. Despite the initial enthusiasm, the subsequent “ghosting” was deafening. Not a single response echoed from the once-promising warehouse. It was a bitter pill to swallow — the realization that the place I had meticulously sought for over a year and a half had slipped through my fingers. Yet, in the face of adversity, I refused to yield.

Undeterred by setbacks, I persisted. I continued to share my vision with anyone willing to listen, unabashedly declaring my intentions and aspirations. Two years of unwavering determination later, a glimmer of hope emerged on the horizon. Through a serendipitous collaboration with a local company, the long-awaited workshops were finally poised to become a reality.

Reflecting on this journey, I’m reminded of a profound belief that anchored me through the storm: the unwavering faith that if this vision was placed upon my heart by God, then its fruition was inevitable.

And now, as I stand on the precipice of realizing my dream, I am filled with gratitude for the journey — every setback, every disappointment, and every triumph has shaped me into the resilient individual I am today. For it is through resilience that dreams are transformed into reality, and I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to witness this transformation firsthand.

Contact Info:

• Website: LKGcustoms.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lkg.customs/?hl=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-gomez-26b86829a/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQxm_9ArNxpUp_V00XrSPZQ
• Other: Link Tree – https://linktr.ee/LKG_customs