Medium : Oil on canvas

Dimensions : 30 x 60 in (76.2 x 152.4 cm)

Availability : 🔴 original sold 

The original conceptual painting “If the Shoe fits” was taken from a point in history where civil rights may have been a whisper in the wind among few.

The idea of not being able to sell a shoe if it had previously been tried on by a person of color predominantly occurred in the southern states of the U.S. . African Americans were required to trace their feet in order to be fitted for shoes .  The painting conveys a moment of acceptance to some degree, yet the anticipation of the newer shoes remain the focal point in her mind .

Key points : The sign stating (whites only) has been repainted to read (coloreds welcomed). The readily available x-ray unit also remained unusable to patrons of color.

If the shoe fits, wear it 
Meaning
If a description applies to you, then accept it .

This expression is often used when something derogatory is said about a person who then complains to a third party. The third party, if they agree with the original negative comment, might suggest “If the shoe fits, then wear it”. An example of that might be:

” I am not racist, I allowed anyone despite the color of their skin to purchase shoes from my establishment”. However you will not allow everyone to try them on, If the shoe fits…