Nike Honors Virgil Abloh’s Legacy at The Codes, Europe’s First Exhibit from the Virgil Abloh Archive™, celebrating his groundbreaking design approach.
What to know
- Nike and the Virgil Abloh Archive™ debut the first major European exhibition devoted to Virgil Abloh’s work.
- “Virgil Abloh: The Codes” opens at the Grand Palais in Paris, running from September 30 to October 9.
- The exhibition explores Abloh’s design methodologies, his long-term partnership with Nike, and the foundational principles behind his creativity.
- Programs include workshops, DJ sets, screenings, and surprise talks with Nike athletes, designers, and partners.
- Learn more at virgilabloh.com.
Honoring Virgil Abloh’s Creative Codes
Nike and the Virgil Abloh Archive™ bring Europe its first major exhibition devoted to the late designer’s extraordinary legacy. Titled “Virgil Abloh: The Codes,” the 10-day event takes place at the Grand Palais in Paris. The showcase highlights his long-standing partnership with Nike, while also revealing the principles that defined his groundbreaking creative process.
Abloh’s Codes were a set of methodological principles that shaped his multidisciplinary work. They guided his approach across fashion, footwear, music, and architecture. As a result, his projects remained instantly recognizable and influential. These same principles elevated collaborations like The Ten with Nike, a collection we’ve covered before on Sneakerize. It became both iconic and adaptable across mediums.
A Collaborative Celebration in Paris
The Paris edition expands upon the 2022 Miami exhibition. Curators Chloe Sultan and Mahfuz Sultan bring together more than 20,000 objects from Abloh’s creative practice. Consequently, the exhibition connects his work across apparel, footwear, architecture, and visual culture. It also spotlights collaborations with artists, athletes, and designers.
Visitors will experience more than just an exhibition. Workshops, DJ sets, screenings, and live conversations extend the event into a dynamic public program. In addition, Nike activations will surprise guests with appearances from athletes, creative partners, and designers who worked alongside Abloh. This offers unique insight into his process.
Voices Continuing the Legacy
“The Codes exhibition kicks off our commitment to bringing Virgil’s legacy and creative process to the creative community and beyond. I am most grateful for Nike’s continued partnership in this important work,” said Shannon Abloh, Chief Executive Officer of Virgil Abloh Securities.
Athiththan Selvendran, Chief Operating Officer of Virgil Abloh Securities, added: “The Codes operate as the soul of Virgil’s legacy; they are at the heart of the Archive… They guide us, reminding us that collectivity and accessibility should be centered in our collaborations and expressions. This is how we keep his legacy alive.”
Looking Forward: Virgil’s Lasting Influence
The Paris exhibition reinforces Abloh’s commitment to access and collaboration. Through the Virgil Abloh Archive, the Foundation, and Nike’s activations, his vision continues to inspire a new generation of creatives worldwide.
“Virgil Abloh: The Codes” opens on September 30, Virgil’s birthday, and runs through October 9 at the Grand Palais in Paris. The show ensures that Nike Honors Virgil Abloh’s Legacy while inspiring the next generation of creators.
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