As a lover of shoes, it can be a real bummer when a favorite pair meets with a tear or fray.  But have no fear: in a case like this you don't have to be a cobbler to remedy this pedestrian problem.  Give your shoes a whole new look - turn them into a work of art!

At a recent exhibit called Walking Tall Too! at the Coachella Valley Arts Center in Indio, California, artists took our old shoes or reused shoes from the thrift store and transformed them into works of art based on some of our favorite artists.  My favorites are Frida Kahlo, Christo and Sor Juana Inez de la Cruz. Sor Juana is known as the first feminist of the New World, born in New Spain (Mexico) in 1651.  She was a poet, writer and outspoken defender of  a woman's right to education. Here's how you can turn an old pair of damaged boots into an homage to your favorite author:

1. Find a variety of  images. Reclaimed books and magazines are a great resource, and you can often find good, vintage ephemera on Etsy or eBay. If you want to go for a less themed look, you can raid your fabric scrap bin and cover your boots with fabric instead.

2. Use mod podge or fabric glue thinned with water to collage the boots.

3. Use hot glue to add some funky fringe at the top.

4. With your embroidery scissors, trim off any excess paper or fabric, then seal the shoes with more of the thinned fabric glue.

5. Let it dry and cure for at least 24 hours, then slip your "new" slippers on and start walking tall!

Have you guys done any fun shoe-related crafts? I'd love to hear your ideas in the comments!