Nike’s Design Journey Showcased in First-Ever Museum Exhibition

Nike's Design Journey Showcased in First-Ever Museum Exhibition

As a gamer who has spent countless hours chasing virtual victories and pushing digital boundaries, I can’t help but marvel at the real-world triumphs that brands like Nike have achieved. The upcoming exhibition at the Vitra Design Museum is not just another event on my calendar; it’s a pilgrimage I plan to make.


The Vitra Design Museum in Germany is set to unveil the inaugural museum exhibit focused on the globally recognized sports brand, Nike, titled “Nike: Form Follows Motion“. Beginning September 19, this innovative display delves into the transformation of Nike from a humble start-up to a worldwide powerhouse over a span of five decades.

Under the guidance of Glenn Adamson, this exhibition presents a unique perspective on Nike’s design evolution throughout history. Guests will trace Nike’s roots back to the 1960s, witness the inception of its renowned Swoosh logo, and observe the progression of their iconic products such as Air Max and Flyknit. The display also explores Nike’s ongoing investigations into innovative materials and sustainability for the future.

Most exhibits are sourced from the Department of Nike Archives, which houses over 200,000 items. Rare artifacts include experimental prototypes of the Waffle sneaker, Air Force One and Shox as well as original design studies for shoes and apparel. The exhibition highlights the creative contributions of in-house designers like Diane Katz, Tinker Hatfield and Eric Avar, alongside external collaborators such as Marc Newson, Comme des Garçons and Virgil Abloh.

The exhibit is divided into four sequential parts: Track, Air, Sensation, and Collaboration – it delves into Nike’s distinctive design studio, its impact on technological advancement and societal transformation. Additionally, it investigates the brand’s impact on popular culture and its interwoven relationship with sports, embodying concepts of physical health, diversity, and equality, which represent the human body ideals, well-being, and inclusivity.

Vitra Design Museum
Charles-Eames-Str. 2
D-79576 Weil am Rhein
Germany

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2024-08-13 11:55