While the Off-White x Futura x Nike collaboration never officially released, Sotheby's is partnering with Nike and Futura Laboratories to offer the chance to acquire these two iconic pairs.
"Sotheby's is proud to present a special global online auction of the Nike Dunk Low 'Virgil Abloh x Futura Laboratories'" announced the American auction platform for artwork and collectibles.
From the moment the Off-White x Futura x Nike collaboration appeared on the runway, the world caught a glimpse of a legendary collaboration. From Virgil Abloh's now-iconic double-lace version on the Swoosh brand's classic silhouette, to graffiti artist Futura's abstract and symbolic touch, the Off-White Spring-Summer 2020 show was an opportunity to discover a perfect symbiosis between two creative minds.
Photo Credits: Sotheby's
For Virgil and Futura, this collaboration was an opportunity to reinterpret the classic Nike Dunk Low design. The "UNC" version incorporates the iconic University of North Carolina Tarheel blue as a nod to the emblematic "Be True To Your School" pack, while the "Fluro Orange" composition showcases Futura's passion for the New York Mets. The latter also references the Nike SB Dunk Low "Danny Supa", released in 2002.
Photo Credits: Sotheby's
Four years after that striking appearance, Sotheby's is finally offering a way to acquire the priceless life legacy left by Virgil Abloh through an exclusive auction.
Only eight pairs will be available at auction
The extremely limited collection will appear on the platform from April 5 through April 14, 2023 and will be the only opportunity for the general public to acquire this special collaboration. Only one silhouette per size will be available, ranging from size 5US to 12US.
Photo Credits: Sotheby's
Proceeds from this auction will be donated to support the work of the Virgil Abloh Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Virgil Abloh Securities, which champions the practice, teachings, and far-reaching ethos of the late creative visionary.
"The 'Virgil Abloh x Futura Laboratories' Dunks were special to Virgil", said Shannon Abloh following the sale announcement, "not only for their role as the centerpiece of the SS20 collection, but also as a symbol of collaboration and creativity, two principles he always prioritized."
As for the existing stock, the remaining pairs are expected to be distributed to Virgil and Futura's communities, friends, artists, designers, all of deep personal significance, Sotheby's states.