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Sole Patchwork of Life project is a touring, community civic engagement art project by artist Eriko Tsogo. In 2020, the Sole Patchwork of Life project will complete its Colorado Tour, making stops at 8 different Denver Council Districts by partnering with host venue organizations that work with marginalized communities. The Sole Patchwork of Life project Colorado Tour is made possible by grant support from City of Denver Office of Equity and Diversity.

An old American proverb recalls, “you can’t understand someone until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes.” In this spirit, we invite you to come create a community art project using the power of storytelling, art, and writing to bridge cultures and bring different communities together to learn from one another.

SPL has mission to tour America with goal to have one “Tree of Life” canvas workshop to be completed by culturally marginalized communities form each state. Once project tour completes, all canvases will be woven together into large tapestry to resemble a symbolic map of current US immigration narrative history with final unveiling event to be held at the US capitol Washington DC. SPL uses the motif of the shoe and sole imprint to promote cultural exchange, intersectionality, diversity and inclusivity through the power of art and storytelling to celebrate radical diversity and advocate social change through innate creativity.

Sole Patchwork of Life project made its second stop at the “Mile High Islamic Center – Bosnian Educational and Cultural Center of Colorado“ on Saturday 2/22/2020 in Denver Council District 1. I got an opportunity to work with the Muslim Bosnian community of Colorado. I got an opportunity to visit the center, a beautiful mosque located at 3550 Sheridan Blvd two times throughout the project having had the honor to observe the Saturday Maghreb Prayer.

With each visit, I was welcomed with open arms and invited to join community in food and celebration. It has been such a culturally enriching experience getting to learn about the traditions and customs of Islam and the Bosnian culture from wearing the hijab to learning about the respectful conducts of entering a mosque.

The Muslim Bosnian community in Colorado is about 275 families strong. Ademir Ceric, president of the mosque’s board, said he wants the center to be an educational tool to teach those who are interested in learning more about Islam.

Members of Bosnian mosques from across the country and Canada were expected to turn up Saturday to be together in prayer, scheduled speeches, a ribbon cutting ceremony and free refreshments and food. (The Denver Post)

Sole Patchwork of Life project @ Mile High Islamic Center picture gallery:

I send my profound appreciation to Nadeen Ibrahim, Hariz and Adisa for all your help in facilitating and making SPL project possible at BECCC! Thank you for your friendship and successful workshop collaboration. We had great feedback and large participation from youth to the elderly.