Housed in a giant shoebox, A Mile in My Shoes is a shoe shop where visitors can experience the world from a stranger’s perspective.

Step inside, swap your shoes, slip on some headphones and take a walk as the shoes’ owner shares their story with you. Melbourne’s exhibit will feature a collection of 35 shoes and audio stories based on the theme of water. Discover tales from all walks of life – an 81-year-old rower, a marine biologist, a Vietnam War veteran and even an English migrant with a fear of water.

Created by London-based artist Clare Patey of Empathy Museum, this work explores how empathy can not only transform our personal relationships but also help tackle global challenges such as prejudice, conflict and inequality.

From England to Brazil, A Mile in My Shoes has travelled all around the world. Now it’s Melbourne’s turn to see the world through someone else’s eyes.

The project is presented by Arts Centre Melbourne as part of its Betty Amsden Participation Program, an annual community event series established by the late Betty Amsden AO and Arts Centre Melbourne to inspire and engage with all Victorians.