The latest exhibition at the NRW-Forum Düsseldorf is dedicated to the cultural history of sneakers.
With around 250 exhibits, including collectibles, classics and innovative models, the international exhibition center for photography, pop and digital culture explores the world of the popular sneaker. Under the title ‘Sneaker’, questions about the origins and success stories are answered and possible future scenarios for sports shoes are discussed.
After passing an oversized shoe box dedicated to the ‘Mag’ model of the US sports retailer Nike from the film ‘Back to the Future II’, visitors enter a museum area divided into three chapters.
The introductory part of the exhibition explores which personalities and brands helped the sneaker achieve legendary status and where exactly its roots lie in sport and music. The central area then discusses the current boom in sneakers, which have become high-priced collector’s items through collaborations and limited editions. Innovative technologies that offer resource-saving options and possible perspectives on the future of sneaker culture are discussed in the final section of the exhibition.
‘Sneaker’ can be seen at the NRW-Forum Düsseldorf until May 26th. In addition to workshops, public tours of the exhibition area take place every second Thursday and Saturday.