In this episode of the Social Lives of Shoes with Dr. Alexandra Sherlock, contemporary fashion artist Jo Cope joins us to explore shoes as powerful vessels for storytelling and social change. From her collaborative project with Shelter addressing homelessness to her evocative twisted stilettos embodying feminist struggles, Jo reveals how craft and performance art can create empathy and drive meaningful dialogue. We discuss her therapeutic making process, the political power of red shoes, and how footwear can connect communities through shared experience. Jo shares insights from teaching ethical social practice and her current reflections on using art to navigate our challenging political climate—all through the humble yet profound medium of shoes.

Credits:

Interviewee: Jo Cope
Interviewer & Presenter: Dr. Alexandra Sherlock
Editor: Dr. Alexandra Sherlock

Podcast Photograph: 

Links & Images:

Available at Footwear Research Network

Chapters:

  1. 00:00 - Show Intro
  2. 00:47 - Episode Intro: Jo Cope
  3. 02:55 - The Power of Shoes as Storytellers
  4. 04:29 - Jo Cope's Artistic Journey and Philosophy
  5. 06:52 - An unexpected Trojan horse
  6. 08:19 - Personal Experiences with Shoes
  7. 10:28 - Educational Journey and Training
  8. 15:21 - Family Legacy
  9. 16:39 - Social Justice and Community Engagement through Shoes and Art
  10. 20:16 - Shoes Have Names: Jo Cope x Shelter
  11. 27:22 - Exploring Femininity and Feminism through Shoes
  12. 32:27 - The Colour Red and Taking up Space
  13. 34:54 - Movement and Performance in Shoe Design
  14. 37:11 - Transformative Experiences Through Shoes
  15. 40:03 - Collectivism and Connection Through Interactive Art
  16. 41:45 - Social Connection and Authentic Storytelling
  17. 45:47 - Hand Craft vs. Digital Technology in Shoe Making
  18. 50:32 - The Importance of Reflection in Creative Practice
  19. 52:53 - Teaching Ethical Social Practice
  20. 56:42 - Social Practice as Collaborative Learning
  21. 58:35 - Future Plans and the Creative Process
  22. 01:00:51 - Conclusion

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