Step into “Gonzovationism” with this new range of Ralph Steadman illustrated shoes

Following on from collaborations with everyone from Vincent van Gogh to Geoff McFetridge, American slip-on peddler, Vans, has unveiled a new range of apparel featuring the work of legendary illustrator Ralph Steadman.

Fashion hub Hypebeast reports that “the footwear selection includes a wide variety of classic Vans styles, informed by Steadman’s signature splatter-heavy approach to painting and a desire to evoke positive conservation-related activities.”

If you’re wondering what constitutes the conservation-related activities that Ralph and Vans want customers to engage in when they slide themselves into a pair of shoes of a weekend, then welcome to the (presumably) weird and wacky world of Gonzovationism, a term conjured into being by Steadman and his long-term collaborator Ceri Levy.

Loosely put, the Gonzovationist philosophy about using humour as a means of engaging the wider public in debates around how best to protect endangered species. To this end, this latest Vans collection sees Ralph and Ceri teaming up with conservation group WildAid to raise both money and awareness for the work that WildAid does in the realm of reducing human consumption of animal-derived products.

In addition to the Steadman-spattered shoes, fans of the great man — or anyone interested in becoming an “alternative conservationist” — will also be able to pick up T-shirts and skateboard decks emblazoned with his singular and charmingly scrappy work.

The full Ralph Steadman range goes on sale via Vans Vault on 27 April. Conversion to Gonzovationism isn’t necessary for purchase.