From Darkness to Color: How Custom Shoe Painting Helped Kelly Murphy Overcome Addiction

Spice Up Your Look With Shameless Soles Hand-Painted Custom Shoes

Healing One Brush Stroke at a Time: Kelly Murphy’s Journey from Addiction to Art

Painting Helped Kelly Murphy Overcome Addiction

WARRINGTON, Pennsylvania — In a small town in Bucks County, Kelly Murphy is transforming lives with her story of resilience and creativity. Battling a 14-year-long opioid addiction, Murphy discovered an unexpected lifeline through art, ultimately founding Shameless Soles, a custom shoe painting business.

“I paint to keep me out of my head,” Murphy shared, reflecting on her journey. Before her path to recovery, she had never considered herself an artist. It was during a particularly challenging period in a treatment center that she first put pen to paper, finding solace and focus in drawing.

Murphy’s struggle with addiction was relentless. “I spent 14 years in and out of addiction and treatment centers. I couldn’t get clean,” she admitted. Desperation turned into hope when a friend suggested she try painting as a hobby. This simple suggestion became a turning point in her life.

Art became Murphy’s new addiction—a healthy one. What started as a hobby quickly evolved into a passionate business venture. “I just wanted more for myself, that was it. I didn’t even know what that meant but it was either that or I was gonna die,” Murphy explained.

Shameless Soles, her custom shoe painting business, showcases Murphy’s talent and dedication. Each piece is a labor of love, meticulously crafted by hand. She begins by sketching her designs on canvas or leather sneakers, then brings them to life with vibrant acrylic paints. The entire process takes about five days on average.

“I put my heart and soul into every pair,” Murphy said, emphasizing the personal connection she feels with each creation. Her custom kicks, priced at about $275 (including the cost of the shoes), have gained popularity for their unique designs and high quality. From color blocking to intricate character designs, Murphy has completed over 200 orders in the past two years.

Bucks County woman uses art to overcome opioid addiction

One of her favorite projects was a pair of shoes themed after Jason Kelce and the Mummers. “I did a Jason Kelce pair which was really cool, him and the mummers, I had fun doing that,” she recalled with a smile.

For Murphy, the monetary gain is secondary. Painting has given her a sense of purpose and a means to inspire others. “It’s not an easy demon to fight, but if you keep fighting no matter how many times you fall, just keep getting back up,” she urged.

Kelly Murphy’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, there can be a spark of light. Through Shameless Soles, she continues to paint a brighter future, one brush stroke at a time.

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