The LSU Museum of Art is kicking off a workshop tonight where participants can add some bling to their favorite pair of shoes.
The workshop, called Trick My Stilettos,, invites participants to decorate a pair of heels or other shoes in the contemporary style of featured artist Rashaad Newsome.
Newsome’s art is based on hip-hop culture, and it incorporates items such as bling. Attendees will view Newsome’s multimedia work before decorating their shoes with provided supplies.
Elizabeth Eaton, a University alumna who plans to attend tonight’s event, said she is looking forward to adding some “pizazz” to a pair of hot pink high-heels.
“Style is the most intimate expression of art,” Eaton said. “Everyone has their own personal styles, and we use colors and textures to express ourselves.”
The contemporary nature of Newsome’s work lends itself to an art-making program, according to Lucy Perera, coordinator of school and community programs for the LSU Museum of Art.
Perera said that Newsome, a New Orleans native, expresses his ideals on the timeless questions of wealth and class through his video art.
Music videos from artists Newsome has worked with will be played during the event. Newsome has worked with Cash Money Millionaires, which is comprised of rappers Birdman and Lil Wayne.
Perera said she hopes Newsome’s art and the activity will start a discussion on the importance modern culture places on style and wealth. Perera said closer examination of Newsome’s work leads to the realization that society defines a person’s value by possessions.
The shoe-decorating program can help participants think more creatively about the way they dress, Perera said.
Newsome’s exhibition at the Museum of Art features his video works paired with seventeenth- and eighteenth-century portraits. The LSU Museum of Art’s press release states that Newsome’s work is used to add a contemporary spin to the classic portraits.
Trick My Stilettos, is open to anyone 18 years older, but participants must be 21 years or older to drink.