‘Shoes Are in My DNA’

A Legacy Preserved Through Art

By Laura Henkel

Art is more than expression—it’s preservation. It holds our stories, memories and emotions, often long after we’re gone. In “Shoes Are in My DNA: DNA Tree of Life,” Michael Feder transforms a sentimental collection into a striking sculptural masterpiece, immortalizing the legacy of his beloved stepmother, Joan Feder. Standing seven feet tall, this piece is not just an homage to her passion for miniature shoes—it’s a celebration of memory, craftsmanship and the ties that bind us across generations.

From Collection to Creation: A Story Cast in Steel

When Joan passed away, she left behind a carefully curated collection of miniature shoes. Like many cherished heirlooms, they carried deep sentimental value but sat in a box, their future uncertain. Rather than leave them tucked away, Michael reimagined the collection as an artistic tribute, ensuring her passion would live on in sculptural and symbolic forms.

Michael is no stranger to the art world. For more than 30 years, he represented artists through his agency, Fame Farm. House of Blues founder Isaac Tigrett credits him with curating much of the Southern folk art that shaped the venue’s distinctive aesthetic. Eventually, Michael transitioned into creating his own art. When his first piece sold, he was inspired to keep going—and the shoes, long waiting for a vision, finally had one.

After years of design and planning, “Shoes Are in My DNA” became an awe-inspiring metal helix that merges personal history with universal symbolism. Its form echoes the double helix of DNA, evoking heritage, lineage and the enduring power of familial love. This isn’t merely an art installation—it’s a living family tree where memories aren’t written in ink but meticulously displayed on steel.

A Sculpture of Depth, Detail and Discovery

The sculpture rises from a 34-by-34-inch plexiglass base, filled with dyed wood chips and additional miniature shoes. Reverse etching on the base’s interior surfaces adds depth, while three hidden ball bearings allow the piece to rotate—inviting viewers to interact and discover new angles. Because of its spiral form, no single viewpoint reveals all the shoes at once. Instead, it beckons exploration, rewarding closer inspection with details ranging from elegant high heels to whimsical designs—each representing different styles, eras and stories.

The weathered, oxidized metal creates a powerful contrast against the colorful, delicate shoes. The interplay between strength and fragility, permanence and impermanence, reflects the essence of legacy—how we hold on to the past even as we move forward.

A Museum-Worthy Work of Art

This creation transcends personal memory. It stands as a bridge between private legacy and public art, transforming sentimental keepsakes into cultural artifacts. Museums often house objects that tell stories of civilization, creativity and resilience—”Shoes Are in My DNA” does all this within a single, breathtaking form.

Michael is currently seeking a public residency for the sculpture—perhaps Zappos HQ or City Hall—with the ultimate goal of a permanent museum home where it can inspire on a broader scale. Looking ahead, he envisions large-scale commissions—indoor pieces at 15 feet and beyond, outdoor installations and themed versions celebrating music, sports and even 3D-printed family trees. The design is registered under copyright, and the possibilities are limitless.

One thing is certain: “Shoes Are in My DNA” is more than a monument to the past—it’s a vibrant celebration of how memory and artistry intertwine to shape the future.

For more information, email Michael@FameFarm.com.​