Pair of Evening Shoes c. 1950 - 1952

These evening shoes, by A. van Goethem, probably from the early 20th century, are more than just objects, they're a study in geometry. The artist's interest is clearly in the creation of an object through material transformation, rather than surface appearance. I love the fabric; you can see the warp and weft of it. It's almost as if Van Goethem wants to expose the inner life of the shoes. The elegant straps give this object a dynamic quality, while the sturdy heel provides it with a stable base. Look at the simple curve of the vamp contrasted against the web of delicate straps! Each choice feels intuitive, driven by the nature of the material. Think of Man Ray's surreal objects or Duchamp's ready-mades. Like them, Van Goethem reminds us that art is not about answers, but about seeing the world in new and unexpected ways.