If you thought Nike’s influence on culture, fashion, and sports was unmatched before, get ready to experience it on an entirely new level. Nike is about to step off the court and into the gallery with its first-ever museum exhibition, “Nike: Form Follows Motion,” set to open at the Vitra Design Museum in Germany on September 21, 2024. This exhibition is a monumental moment not just for the brand, but for sneakerheads, design aficionados, and culture vultures who live for everything dope and innovative.
The mastermind behind the lens capturing this epic showcase is none other than Alastair Wiper, a photographer who was given unprecedented access to Nike’s archives, R&D departments, and manufacturing headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon. Wiper’s work will be featured throughout the exhibition, offering an insider’s look at the iconic brand’s evolution—from its humble beginnings to its status as a global phenomenon. His images promise to be more than just eye candy; they’re a deep dive into the core of what makes Nike tick.
Curated by Glenn Adamson, “Nike: Form Follows Motion” takes visitors on a journey through Nike’s five-decade history, showcasing how the brand has not only kept pace with the times but often set the pace. From the creation of the iconic Swoosh logo in the 1960s to the groundbreaking development of products like the Air Max and Flyknit, the exhibition lays bare the design ethos that has kept Nike at the forefront of culture and innovation.
But this isn’t just a nostalgic look back. The exhibition is divided into four chronological sections—Track, Air, Sensation, and Collaboration—each highlighting different phases of Nike’s design journey. You’ll see how Nike has continuously evolved, embracing new technologies and materials to push the boundaries of what’s possible in sportswear. The show also delves into the future, with a focus on Nike’s ongoing research into sustainable materials, proving that the brand is not just looking back but is very much in tune with the needs of tomorrow.
For those who can’t get enough of sneaker culture, this exhibition is an absolute must-see. You’ll get a firsthand look at some of the most iconic products in Nike’s arsenal, from the Air Jordan to the Flyknit. But beyond the kicks, the exhibition is a celebration of the brand’s overarching influence on global culture. Nike has always been about more than just sportswear; it’s about movement, innovation, and a relentless drive to be better.
Running until May 4, 2025, “Nike: Form Follows Motion” is not just a history lesson; it’s a bold statement about the future of design, culture, and innovation. Whether you’re a die-hard Nike fan, a design enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates the intersection of culture and sports, this exhibition is your chance to see what makes Nike the most revered sports brand in the world.
So mark your calendars, cop your tickets, and get ready to experience Nike like never before. This is more than just an exhibition—it’s a cultural event that will resonate far beyond the walls of the Vitra Design Museum. Don’t miss out on this chance to see history in the making.
