Virgil Abloh and NikeLab Launch Immersive Chicago Re-Creation Center
The space will host panels, hands-on workshops and more.
As Virgil Abloh prepares to debut his MCA Chicago exhibition, the designer and creative director launches a new partnership with NikeLab also in his home state. Titled the Re-Creation Center, the newly designed space is described by Nike as a “cultural hub” and will host hands-on workshops and mentorship programs geared towards Abloh’s young fans.
For a two month period, the Re-Creation Center is set to offer exclusive drops, “giveback programs” and exclusive panel discussions featuring local creatives handpicked by Abloh. Individuals who will participate include Chuck Anderson, Paul Octavious, Alyx Harch, Thomas Kelley, Carrie Norman, Ann Lui and Craig Reschke. Subjects ranging from brand identity, fabric design, graphic design, photography and more will be covered in-depth.
Additionally, the immersive space will highlight Nike’s “Reuse-a-Shoe” initiative. This program transforms worn out sneakers into Nike Grind. According to a press release, the sustainable textile has been gathered and transformed for the past 25 years from landfill. Nike has turned the material into apparel and basketball courts. Notably, an Abloh-designed community basketball court will be built in Chicago ahead of the NBA All-Star 2020 out of Nike Grind.
Virgil Abloh and NikeLab’s Re-Creation Center in Chicago has officially launched and will run through July 28. Take a look at the space in the gallery above. Head over to Nike’s SNKR’s app for more details.