Nike and the Virgil Abloh Archive are transforming the Grand Palais in Paris with an immersive exhibition spotlighting two decades of groundbreaking design and the creative codes that defined Virgil’s legacy.
Exhibition Overview (“Virgil Abloh: The Codes”)
The first major European retrospective for Virgil Abloh is on view from September 30 through October 9 at the Grand Palais, featuring over 1,000 items drawn from an archive of 20,000+ pieces spanning fashion, footwear, architecture, music, and more. Curated by Chloe Sultan and Mahfuz Sultan, the exhibition traces Virgil’s hallmark design “codes”—principles that unified his process across every medium and genre, especially in his influential partnership with Nike. Rare objects, sketches, prototypes, unfinished work, and personal treasures are displayed alongside public programs, dialogues, DJ sets, and collaborative workshops.
Nike Partnership and Global Creative Dialogue
The exhibition is a partnership between Nike, Virgil’s longtime creative collaborator, the Virgil Abloh Archive, and the nonprofit Virgil Abloh Foundation. Nike activations during the 10-day show will feature surprise athlete and designer appearances, hands-on workshops, and deep dives into Abloh’s process, most notably “The Ten” sneaker collaborations that made design history.
Shannon Abloh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Virgil Abloh Securities, said:
“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. 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.”
Learning From Virgil’s Codes
The “Codes” guiding the exhibition are at the core of Abloh’s creativity—universal principles that transcend a single field. These codes tie together iconic Nike collaborations, streetwear, art, interiors, and even advertising, offering visitors both inspiration and tools for their own creative journeys.
Athiththan Selvendran, Chief Operating Officer of Virgil Abloh Securities, Chief Creative Officer of the Virgil Abloh Foundation, and Director of the Virgil Abloh Archive, said:
“The Codes operate as the soul of Virgil’s legacy; they are at the heart of the 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.”
Tickets, Programming, and Social Impact
The public can book tickets for €15 at virgilabloh.com (reduced/free for students and youth), with all proceeds supporting the Virgil Abloh Foundation to build creative pathways for future generations. Programming includes talks, performances, publication launches, and a recreation of the Colette concept store, offering limited-edition collectibles and a unique Paris Fashion Week experience.
“Virgil Abloh: The Codes” turns the Grand Palais into a living archive, revealing how process, community, and radical openness remain at the center of Virgil’s enduring influence on design around the world.
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