Event description

What happens to shoes when they reach the end of their life? With over 22 billion pairs produced worldwide each year and few options for recycling and repair, the 'This is Not a Shoe' workshop and exhibit invite us to reflect on footwear lifecycles. Inspired by surrealists René Magritte and Elsa Schiaparelli, the deconstruction and reconstruction of these familiar objects encourage us to think about consumption and disposal habits, as well as the hidden potential in the uncertain endings of fashion objects.  

What’s involved?

In this 2-hour hands-on and creative workshop led by contemporary jeweller Pennie Jagiello and footwear researcher Dr Alexandra Sherlock, you’ll transform your old shoes into a unique accessory or art piece. You'll learn to carefully deconstruct and upcycle footwear using craft knives, awls, needles, and other tools - no prior experience needed, though sewing skills are a bonus. We provide safety equipment and demonstrations, but please note this workshop involves sharp tools, and participants accept responsibility for their own safety. We may take photos to share on social media (let us know if you'd prefer to opt out).

Open to ages 18+ only.

What to bring and how to prepare

An old pair of washed or sanitised shoes you'd like to transform into something else. Due to time constraints, you'll need to carefully deconstruct your shoes beforehand with minimal cutting to maintain the integrity of the pieces. In these deconstruction tutorials, the Adidas Superstar took approximately 2 hours, while the UGG took 50 minutes. Suitable shoes for deconstruction and upcycling include slippers, crocs (or other EVA mono-material shoes), sneakers, and gumboots. Please bring all the resulting components and waste with you. All other materials and tools will be supplied. 

Where is it?

This workshop is held as part of the exhibition Uncertain Endings curated by Dr. Julia English and Dr. Remie Cibis at Dark Horse Experiment, 400 Spencer St, West Melbourne. You’ll be able to browse the exhibition during the workshop, taking inspiration from the garments and textile works on display.

Get in touch:

You can learn more about Dr Alexandra Sherlock and Pennie Jagiello’s research at: https://alexandrasherlock.com/the-affordances-of-affordance-theory

Please contact alex@footwearresearchnetwork.org if you have questions about this workshop.