Jacek Kamiński

Shoemaker

©Kacper Nowak

©Jacek Kamiński

Shoemaking brought to the stage

Jacek specialises in creating modern and historical shoes for theatre productions
He is carrying forward a family tradition and ensuring it lives on through training other artisans
He believes that good shoes should be a perfect fit, have style and last a long time

Jacek Kamiński has been crafting tailor-made footwear since 1979. His work is built upon a solid foundation of passed-down knowledge, masterful craftsmanship and a keen eye for form, from the generations before him. His shoes, both contemporary and historical, are worn by actors, opera singers, politicians and high-ranking officials. "My footwear has graced the feet of actors on the stages of leading theatres and sets of major film productions," says Jacek. Each pair is handcrafted using traditional techniques with a great attention to detail. In his shoemaking, Jacek is not only preserving the legacy of his uncle Brunon who introduced him to the craft, but he is also spreading it. He is training and collaborating with a new generation of artisans who blend classic craftsmanship with the expectations of modern clients.

Interview

©Jacek Kamiński

What drew you to shoemaking?: My uncle encouraged me to go into shoemaking right after I finished school. At first, having no strong conviction, I thought I would just give it a shot. However, as time passed, I started seeing that it could be more than just my profession, and become a passion and a way to carry forward a family tradition.
How did you get involved in theatre and film?: In the 1990s, I started receiving requests for custom historical footwear from costume designers. My first project was Szamanka, followed by Pan Tadeusz, With Fire and Sword, Quo Vadis, The Pianist and more recently, Wicked. It quite literally brought my craft to the stage and opened the door to lasting collaborations with theatres and opera houses.
What makes a pair of shoes a true work of art?: Shoemaking is all about harmony and how curved lines and materials come together. Good shoes should fit perfectly, be durable and look beautiful. There is no magic formula – it takes precision, experience and a shoemaker’s eye to find the perfect balance.
Is traditional shoemaking at risk of dying out?: I do not think so. There is a revival of interest in the craft, as people are looking for quality and individuality. I mentor young craftspeople and collaborate with curious minds who bring together modern and time-honoured techniques.

Jacek Kamiński is a master artisan: he began his career in 1979 and he started teaching in 1999