The Gold Coast known for its active lifestyle, fashion-forward culture, is set to welcome an Australian exclusive: “Sneakers Unboxed: Studio to Street.” This blockbuster summer exhibition, hosted at HOTA Gallery, promises to be a cultural fit for the city, celebrating the iconic footwear phenomenon that has influenced contemporary culture, fashion, and sport.
Originating at The Design Museum in London, “Sneakers Unboxed: Studio to Street” delves deep into the world of sneaker culture, exploring their design and cultural journey. Over 400 objects, including a remarkable collection of over 200 shoes, process materials, photography, posters, videos, and artworks, will be on display, taking visitors on a captivating journey from the studio to the streets.
One of the exhibition’s highlights is a dive into the iconic collaborations that have left an indelible mark on the sneaker industry. Names like Chuck Taylor and Michael Jordan, as well as sneakers such as the Reebok InstaPump Fury, the Vans Half Cab, and the Asics Gel Lyte III, have become cultural symbols. The exhibition also showcases runway reinventions by fashion giants like Comme des Carçons, Sacai, A-Cold-Wall*, and Craig Green.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, “Sneakers Unboxed: Studio to Street” sheds light on the future of sustainable footwear. It features designers who are revolutionizing the industry with plant-based sneakers from brands like Veja and Native Shoes, along with custom designs by talents such as Helen Kirkum and Alexander Taylor.
Curator Ligaya Salazar highlights the exhibition’s focus on the role of young people from diverse backgrounds in shaping sneaker culture, turning them into style icons, and driving a billion-dollar industry. Moreover, the exhibition offers a behind-the-scenes look at upcycling and sustainable design practices, showcases unseen prototypes, and explores the streetwear and fashion collaborations that have transformed the industry.
The Hon. Rob Borbidge AO, Chair of Experience Gold Coast, sees this exhibition as a perfect fit for the city. He emphasizes its relevance to contemporary culture, active lifestyles, fashion, and sport, showcasing the Gold Coast’s commitment to hosting world-class cultural events.
Mik Auckland, Interim CEO of HOTA, encourages everyone to step into HOTA Gallery this summer to experience “Sneakers Unboxed: Studio to Street.” This exhibition is the first major design showcase since the gallery’s opening in May 2021, and it perfectly aligns with the Gold Coast’s vibrant street culture and passion for fashion.
Bradley Vincent, Acting Director of Gallery and Visual Arts at HOTA, expresses excitement about this international design exhibition’s partnership with The Design Museum in London. “Sneakers Unboxed” has traveled worldwide, and the Gold Coast edition offers a unique Australian perspective on the sneaker phenomenon.
The exhibition is divided into two captivating chapters: “STYLE” and “PERFORMANCE.” The first chapter explores the influence of social movements and youth culture on sneakers, tracing their journey from sportswear accessories to cultural symbols. The second chapter delves into the technological advancements, materials, and design processes behind performance-oriented sneakers.
“Sneakers Unboxed: Studio to Street” promises a remarkable journey through the evolution of sneakers, from their humble origins to the high-end fashion collaborations and celebrity endorsements that continue to shape their legacy. Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to witness the past, present, and future of sneaker design, all on display in the heart of the Gold Coast.
Sneakers Unboxed: Studio to Street
From 25 November 2023
HOTA Gallery, 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise Gold Coast
Open 10am-4pm daily
Tickets starting from $10
