Is there any logo more iconic than the Nike swoosh? As perhaps arguably the most recognizable symbol in sports, its journey from a small running company to a global powerhouse is explored by the “Vitra Design Museum“. This exploration is now showcased in the exhibition Nike: Form Follows Motion, brought to life at the “Museum of Arts and Design” in New York until March 2027.
Nike’s Storied Archives Revealed
The “Vitra Design Museum” has spent years contemplating an exhibition on the intersection of sports and design. Collaborating with Nike unveiled access to the “Department of Nike Archives“, a treasure trove of objects, documents, and prototypes never seen before. Curator Glenn Adamson utilized this reservoir to create a comprehensive narrative of Nike’s evolution.
“Drawing on the extraordinary depth and breadth of DNA’s holdings, including objects, documents, prototypes, study models, and material research, as well as some current designs from the company,” Adamson shares.
A Cultural Icon Meets New York
Bringing Nike: Form Follows Motion to New York aligns with the city’s cultural milestones, from the New York Knicks’ NBA triumph to the World Cup Final hosted nearby.
“Having the exhibition travel to New York couldn’t feel more fitting,” Adamson notes. “Nike’s bond with the city dates back to when hip hop broke, with brands like Nike closely tied to streetwear culture.”
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Renowned graffiti artist Faust adds a New York signature to this exhibition with his artwork on the accompanying book cover and the museum store door.
Exhibiting the Unseen Evolution
Visitors will witness not only Nike’s finished products like the Waffle Trainer and Air Force 1 but also delve into unseen prototypes, sketches, and design studies that shaped Nike’s legacy. Rare one-offs stand beside familiar icons to highlight the innovation journey.
The show is organized into four sections across the floors of MAD. “Track” narrates Nike’s origins, “Air” showcases the ’80s revolution with visible Air cushioning, “Sensation” explores Nike’s research, while “Relation” showcases 50 footwear styles and the fusion with streetwear.
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Adamson remarks on the rarity, “Prototypes demonstrate the intricate design processes and innovative spirit Nike embodies.”
An Unprecedented Collection
With over 200,000 objects from DNA, the exhibition, curated for the first time, offers an unparalleled glimpse into Nike’s evolving designs and cultural impact.
Nike: Form Follows Motion remains open to the public at the “Museum of Arts & Design” in New York until March 7, 2027, inviting visitors to explore the dynamic history and creative future of Nike.
Source: design-milk.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the Nike: Form Follows Motion exhibition?
Nike: Form Follows Motion is an exhibition showcasing the evolution of Nike’s designs and their cultural impact, featuring unseen prototypes, sketches, and iconic designs at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York until March 2027.
What does the Nike exhibition reveal?
The Nike exhibition reveals never-before-seen objects, documents, and prototypes from the Department of Nike Archives, providing a comprehensive narrative of Nike’s evolution and innovative spirit.
Where is Nike: Form Follows Motion located?
The exhibition is located at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York.