I like to think there is a romantic intent behind the cooperative effort from many people whom collectively yet individuality create a shoe tree.
Sort of like gum walls or bridge love locks; yet shoe trees seem to be even more special because they are usually in very remote, way out of the way places. Unlike the fore mentioned gum walls and bridge love locks, which are located in popular travel locations. There are about 12 shoe trees listed online in the United States. Several are essentially hidden in the Nevada desert, which is where I first encountered this phenomenon.
Shoe trees start with one dreamer tossing their footwear high in the air to catch an out of reach branch, unseen by most. Slowly then a domino effect; months, years or even decades can pass before this public work comes to be known as a shoes tree. Each pair added as a solo event until 1000s are dangling from the branches.
Some of the shoes have messages or poems attached; newlyweds, baby shoes, marking a personal place in history or personal accomplishments. Most are unadorned, just dreamers who want to be part of something bigger and universal.
This public work of art, years in the making, connects its contributors to this place as we travel through life.
Together, we each contribute to the fabric of life, to the universe. Merry Merry! and Happy Happy!
Laura 