The great thing about art is that it can be inspired by anything and anyone at anytime. The silly recent events in which a shoe was thrown at former President Bush by an angry Iraqui has inspired artist, Laith al-Amari. Laith al-Amari is the sculptor of a huge sofa sized sculpture of the shoe, coated in copper, placed on a carved white stand to resemble flowing cloth was unveiled to the public on Thursday in the hometown of Saddam Hussein.
According to al-Amari, the shoe sculpture is a symbol of pride among the Iraqis. In Arab culture, throwing one's shoe at another is a sign of great contempt and very offensive. Although Geoge W. Bush skillfully dodged both shoes, the image of the incident remains very alive and strong among Arab people. "It is not a political work." Claims the sculptor.
The infamous shoe has not only inspired Laith al-Amari, it has also inspired internet video games and more artists from around the world. According to an article in metro.co.uk, Eric Navickas, a city counselor in Ashland, Oregon, opened a Mada Shell Gallery by slathering red paint on the bottom of shoes, sandals and boots and allowing people to take their turn and throw their footwear at an 8 feet portrait of Bush. Each shot cost a dollar and went towards future gallery exhibits.
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