Explore ‘The Codes’: A Fascinating New Exhibit Celebrating Virgil Abloh’s Legacy in Paris
On September 30th, the world eagerly celebrated Virgil Abloh, marking what would have been his 45th birthday with the opening of the exhibit Virgil Abloh: The Codes at the iconic Palais Garnier in Paris. A chic early crowd, appraised in a blend of elegant Parisian style and modern streetwear, buzzed outside, anticipating a showcase of a visionary who transformed the realms of fashion and art. The enticing entrance through what was once the famed Colette boutique set the stage for an immersive experience, inviting guests not just to view, but to feel a connection to Abloh’s unique perspective on luxury and creativity.
A Legacy Remembered
Curated by Chloe and Mahfuz Sultan, this exhibit stands as the first major retrospective in Europe dedicated solely to Abloh’s work. It presents a remarkable assemblage of objects from his illustrious career—ranging from his innovative brands Pyrex Vision and Off-White to his impactful role as the creative director for Louis Vuitton menswear. Visitors were treated to sketches, prototypes, and personal artifacts that collectively narrate Abloh’s artistic journey.
Shannon Abloh poignantly highlighted on opening day that these exhibits act as a “living record” of her late husband’s profound influence and worldview, showcasing how he blurred boundaries between fashion, art, music, and design.
Exploring Creativity
The exhibit begins by chronicling Abloh’s life as a Black American descendant of Ghana, from his roots in Illinois to his emergence as one of the 21st century’s most influential minds. It elegantly dissects how he intertwined various disciplines, challenging the traditional boundaries of creativity.
As you wander through the spaces, you encounter rooms bursting with collections and creations that capture the essence of his thought processes. On one wall, a massive sneaker display showcases everything from classic Air Jordans to contemporary Off-White x Nike collaborations. These pieces, coupled with Abloh’s hallmark touch of irony—like the iconic orange zip ties—epitomize his ever-evolving dialogue with style and identity.
Challenging the Norms
One wall displays an impressive array of T-shirts, perhaps the most emblematic of Abloh’s impact on fashion. In his early Pyrex Vision days, he famously transformed inexpensive flannel shirts, branding them with names such as “Pyrex,” and elevated their value exponentially. This notion encapsulates Abloh’s philosophy on design: it’s not merely about the product itself but the narrative woven around it.
Across the exhibit, Alessi tea kettles, variations of Louis Vuitton handbags, and quirky chrome staplers line the industrial shelving—inviting visitors to rethink notions of luxury and status. Like his innovative Instagram flatlays, everything tells a story of redefining what it means to be both a creator and consumer in this modern age.
The Final Touch
The exhibit culminates in a stunning presentation of a McIntosh speaker designed by Abloh before his passing, a fitting tribute to his passion for music and sound. Often regarded as inseparable from design, Abloh’s influence extends to this masterpiece, showcasing the prototype alongside equipment from his personal collection—an intersection of creativity, sound, and artistry that he so treasured.
Robin Givhan’s recent publication beautifully encapsulates Abloh’s ambitions. The meticulous manner in which he catalogued his life’s work speaks volumes about his desire not just to innovate but to be remembered, to inspire future generations.
A Community and Connection
As the exhibition concludes, visitors are left with Abloh’s resonating wisdom: “For me, design is about whatever I find is worthy to tell a story about.” This sentiment encapsulates his essence—bringing people together, creating a sense of belonging in the world of luxury that was previously elusive.
The intrigue surrounding this exhibition is not merely about the displayed items but the profound sense of community it promotes. If you have a chance, immerse yourself in this celebration of Virgil Abloh’s legacy. It’s an experience that invites everyone to appreciate the beauty of creativity in all its forms.
Join the conversation, celebrate creativity, and let Virgil’s legacy inspire your own journey in the world of beauty and beyond!
