SIMULATION AND APPROPRIATION OF SHOEPRINTS AS AESTHETIC IMPRESSIONS IN PAINTING

摘要

Shoeprints are abundant impressions found in our surroundings as people wear shoes and trek about. They are the marks created by the soles of shoes on surfaces. These impressions are aesthetic in their shapes and patterns but appear not to have been given serious attention by Nigerian painters. This article, therefore, examines the relevance of these seemingly ordinary environmental impressions, and their aesthetic and conceptual nature within the realm of art. The abundance of these environmental impressions (shoeprints) within the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria main campus stimulated interest in the theme, thereby compelling exploration of the subject matter through simulation of the prints (impressions) in painting. The objectives of the study were clearly stated, and the methodology was qualitative. The study identified that not many Nigerian painters have paid scholarly attention to these environmental impressions as art; the study can raise awareness about the intricate shapes and patterns as fundamental elements and principles of design; the fleeting aesthetics of the ephemeral shoeprints could be captured in painting for closer study and appreciation; conceptual art encourages the use of any object as art; the study encourages innovation and improvisation in painting among others.