Earl Stewart

https://earlstewart.design/

During Earl’s studies at Victoria University of Wellington – Te Herenga Waka his work was already getting acknowledged internationally.  After graduating with a MDes, Earl set out to turn a lifelong passion into a career. Drawn to footwear, apparel, and objects that help people express identity and belonging, he began building a path that would take him from New Zealand to some of the world’s most innovative creative hubs. His journey led him first to London, Portland, Barcelona, and now to Dubai, where he lives and works today.

Earl’s professional portfolio is impressive, with creative collaborations that read like a Who’s Who of the sports and fashion shoe world. He has worked with global leaders such as Nike, Reebok, Adidas, HP, and Brooks, as well as on special projects including Reebok & Botter and Brooks & hp. These opportunities have allowed him to contribute to designs that blend function, performance, and cultural storytelling—qualities that continue to shape his outlook as a designer.

Innovation is at the heart of Earl’s practice. He works with state-of-the-art ideation, prototyping, and manufacturing processes, with a particular focus on advanced 3D printing technologies. By embracing these tools, he pushes the boundaries of what is creatively and technically possible in footwear design, always searching for new ways to merge form and meaning. And now expanding his field of expertise into soft robotics.

While shoes remain his main professional focus, Earl also dedicates time to personal projects that reflect his Māori heritage and creative versatility. One example is Puipuiaki, a contemporary design that holds precious items and represents an expression of cultural identity. Its modern aesthetic, rooted in tradition, speaks to Earl’s exploration of dual identities and the ways they can come together in design.

From Wellington to the world, Earl continues to carve out a unique space in global design, blending innovation, heritage, and creativity.