Virgil Abloh’s impact is still unfolding, this time in Paris, where Nike and the Virgil Abloh Archive™ are teaming up for a 10-day celebration of his brilliance. “Virgil Abloh: The Codes” is Europe’s first major exhibition devoted to his work, landing at the legendary Grand Palais from September 30 (Virgil’s birthday, no less) through October 9, Nike reports.
The show is more than just sneakers and streetwear. It’s an immersive experience that takes visitors deep into the design principles Virgil lived by, known as his Codes. Those Codes, which fueled iconic projects like The Ten with Nike, made his work instantly recognizable and endlessly influential across fashion, art, music, and beyond.
“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,” says Shannon Abloh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Virgil Abloh Securities. “Sharing his personal collection, unfinished work and magnum opuses with the world is a powerful way we honor Virgil’s deep belief in access and collaboration. Through the Virgil Abloh Archive, his vision continues to inspire and guide the next generation.”
Curated by Chloe Sultan and Mahfuz Sultan, the Paris edition builds on the 2022 Miami showing, expanding the lens to highlight Virgil’s fingerprints across apparel, footwear, architecture, music, advertising, and collaborations with artists and athletes. Think workshops, surprise Nike athlete conversations, design deep dives, DJ sets, screenings, and even chances to see pieces from Virgil’s personal collection that have never been displayed before.
“The Codes operate as the soul of Virgil’s legacy; they are at the heart of the Archive,” says Athiththan Selvendran, Chief Operating Officer of Virgil Abloh Securities, Chief Creative Officer of the Virgil Abloh Foundation, and Director of the Virgil Abloh Archive. “The Codes tell a story about the creative intention and archival practice that shaped Virgil’s identity. 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.”
With more than 20,000 objects in the Archive, the exhibition is both a time capsule and a launchpad, ensuring that Virgil’s ethos of collectivity, collaboration, and access doesn’t just live in the past but continues to shape the culture.
Paris is calling for anyone who has ever felt seen in an Off-White zip tie or inspired by Virgil’s “everything is possible” approach. Virgil Abloh: The Codes isn’t just an exhibit; it’s an invitation to walk through his creative universe.
Cover photo: Nike Celebrates Virgil Abloh With New “Codes” Paris Exhibit Set to Open on His Birthday/Photo credit: David Kasnic/NY Times