All this do-goodery in the menswear world is making us very happy at The Manual, hence our weekly spotlight on brands making a difference. But we always like to see companies who think out of the box when it comes to giving back. More than just giving a percentage of profits or a ‘pair for a pair’, companies like Sperry are working a little harder.
In it’s second year, The Sea Project is an on-going series of culturally-driven projects that are focused on major ocean love. Through different mediums, attention is brought to the needs of the sea and the project is aligned with different non-profit organizations to benefit from the efforts.
Last year Sperry worked with Portland, Maine based creative agency, The Fin Studio in Boston, exhibiting work of six artists that have been inspired by the sea. Half the proceeds were donated to the Charles River Watershed Association.
This year Sperry worked with Fin Studio again and invited individuals to share their creative expressions inspired by their own passion for the sea and enter them for consideration in the Instagram-fueled photography contest, exhibit and limited edition book.
“The sea means something different to all of us and the expression of what the sea represents to each person through their own photo or image of original art is what makes this event so special,” commented Craig Reingold, President, Sperry Top-Sider. “We are excited to support this project which allows individuals across the globe to share their Passion for the Sea.”
All work from the exhibit was on display September 12-15, 2013 during America’s Cup, and select images are featured in the limited edition book that is on sale now. For 2013, The Sea Project has selected the Ocean Conservancy as the non-profit beneficiary of book sale proceeds.
It only makes sense that all this would come from a brand that launched the first boat shoe back in 1935. Not to mention the brand is title sponsor of the U.S. Sailing Team, official footwear sponsor of the Sperry Top-Sider NOOD Regattas, the U.S. Sailing Association, the Salt Water Sportsman Seminar Series, Charleston Race Week and the National Safe Boating Council. (Dang!)
Instagram your favorite salty sea moments and tag @TheManualStyle and #mypassionforthesea so we can see where the sea takes you.
To purchase the book, check out Sperry’s website.
