Header: Nike
Nike and the Virgil Abloh Archive™ have opened the doors to “Virgil Abloh: The Codes,” the first major European exhibition dedicated to the iconic designer’s work. For ten days at the Grand Palais in Paris, visitors get a rare look into the creative mind of Virgil Abloh, focusing on his long and inventive partnership with Nike and the core principles that guided his entire career.
Decoding the design genius
The whole point of the exhibition is to showcase Virgil’s “Codes.” These weren’t just random ideas; they were his methodological principles, a set of rules he applied to almost any product, space, or medium. These Codes are what made his work, especially “The Ten” collection with Nike, so instantly recognizable and easy for others to understand. They were his creative signature, threading through his work in fashion, footwear, architecture, and even music.
Inside the Paris exhibition
Curated by Chloe Sultan and Mahfuz Sultan, this Paris show is a bigger version of the one held in Miami back in 2022. It pulls from the Virgil Abloh Archive, which contains over 20,000 items from his practice. The space is filled with his personal collection, unfinished pieces, and some of his most famous creations. The exhibition puts a spotlight on his many collaborations with artists, athletes, and other designers, showing how much he valued working together and creative conversation. To make the experience more interactive, Nike is hosting surprise talks with its athletes and designers, plus workshops that give a deeper look into Virgil’s archive and partnership with the brand.
Keeping the legacy alive
This event is not just a retrospective; it’s about continuing his work. Shannon Abloh, CEO of Virgil Abloh Securities, described it as a commitment to bringing Virgil’s legacy to the creative community. She explained that sharing his work is a powerful way to honor his belief in access and collaboration. Athiththan Selvendran, who helps run the archive and foundation, added that the “Codes operate as the soul of Virgil’s legacy.” He noted that they tell a story about the creative intention that shaped Virgil’s identity and remind everyone that community and accessibility should be at the center of all creative work. Through this exhibition, Virgil’s vision continues to guide and inspire a new generation.
