The Work Explained
Gray’s journey as a designer began in footwear. His 2022 senior thesis, “Substratum”, was a two-part footwear collection, consisting of a boot and a derby. Group Show 2 has pushed Gray to reengage with the medium after time away, making the challenge of refinement especially daunting.
About Ausmesser
Gray Messer founded ausmesser after graduating from FIT with a degree in Footwear and Accessory Design. His work is defined by patterning—subtle subversions of archetypal forms that render designs both familiar and off-beat. A deeply personal project, ausmesser embodies the rare beauty of referencing one’s own roots.
The Process
The Konzert Oxford is a case study in harmonic design. Grey spent the majority of his time patterning the upper and sole together, to create a complementary shape. Equally considered is the pairing of materials: the rugged leather and the delicate silk jacquard meet in a way that feels inevitable.
"The button pair is an important aspect for me. Buttons have always held a unique place in my work—particularly in the unorthodox way they function. Here they frame either side of the vamp and provide a sense of security, locking you in. I appreciate that feeling in clothing and I was glad to incorporate that here."