Virgil Abloh needs no introduction. One of this generation's most prolific designers, we, unfortunately, lost the talented Chicago-born in November 2021, however, his legacy will live on well past even our own lifetimes. We’re used to seeing his own “Figures Of Speech” exhibit traveling the US every year, but his key partner, Nike, is planning on honoring the late-great designer through an exhibit during Art Basel in Miami this December through a partnership with VA Securities (ran by Abloh’s wife Shannon) titled “Virgil Abloh: The Code c/o Architecture”
Beginning on December 1st and ending on December 4th, 2022, the exhibit will be hosted at Miami’s Rubell Museum and honor Abloh’s creative legacy as well as his partnership with The Swoosh. Even though his designs landed in the world of fashion, his methodological principles can be applied to a variety of mediums, products, and spaces. In the past, Abloh created a website that went through “Free Code,” a guide for creatives to help them navigate the earliest phases of their brand's inception, though now Nike is aiding in his open-source efforts with the upcoming exhibit.
Abloh’s wife and current CEO and Managing Director of VA Securities (Virgil Abloh Securities) spoke about the exhibit and Abloh’s legacy, stating, “Virgil and Nike thrived together because he understood the brand’s role as a cornerstone of culture while Nike understood the importance of truly supporting creatives and their visions. This beautiful four-day experience at Miami Art Week will honor their legacy together and champion both Virgil’s open-source methods and his genuine commitment to collaborating with and inspiring others.”
On top of showcasing Abloh’s past efforts and inspiring future creatives, The Codes exhibition will formally introduce the previously leaked Off-White x Nike Terra Forma, Abloh’s first sneaker fully designed from the ground up with Nike. The shoes, as well as a matching apparel line, will be released later in December.
This commitment by Nike to showcase Abloh’s legacy further cements how key their collaborative efforts were for both the sportswear giant and design legend. If you’re interested in attending the event, Nike suggests following @arch___itecture on Instagram as key information regarding opening hours and more will be posted for “Virgil Abloh: The Codes c/o Architecture.” Keep it locked to our Twitter and the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the exhibit as well as release info for the Off-White x Nike Terra Forma and more in the sneaker and streetwear world. Check below for photos showcasing some of the items on display at the exhibit!
