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Innovation is a process that requires fearless creativity and the willingness to fail forward. Voodoo Club’s Wekaforé takes us on a journey through his creative process with the Nike Air Max 1 ’86 “Big Bubble”.
As one of the founding members of Voodoo Club, Wekaforé faced a few challenges when he came to Barcelona in 2017. The Nigerian artist noticed a lack of safe spaces for the city’s black community, so he decided to create his own. The underground parties drew in artists and creatives from different backgrounds, quickly forming an eccentric community of multidisciplinary talent.
“As kids of the diaspora, fearlessness is our only emblem because when most things are set up for you to fail, your idea of failure changes.”
– Wekaforé
The story of the Air Max 1 begins with failure. Tinker Hatfield’s groundbreaking idea was to reveal the workings of Nike’s revolutionary cushioning technology with a visible Air unit. But the first member of the Air Max family faced many challenges leading up to its launch.
Hatfield’s original design included an even bigger window than the silhouette that we are familiar with today. However, the big Air unit was prone to cracking in cold temperatures and Nike’s engineers had to shrink the window.
“There are no wrong turns when you’re starting from ground zero. All movement is good movement. Innovation sometimes is seamless, although most times it’s uncomfortable.”
– Wekaforé
A few pairs with the original design still hit shelves when the AM1 first released on 26 March 1987. The legend of the “big bubble” was born and the ultra-rare pair is the holy grail for sneakerheads and collectors everywhere. Now, for the first time since the initial run, the Air Max 1 is back with the original “big bubble”!
This Air Max Day, we are celebrating uncensored innovation and fearless creativity together with Voodoo Club and Nike in Barcelona.
On Sunday 26 March, the AIR FACTORY will host the creative community for a day of collaboration with innovative customization techniques. Discover the untold story of Voodoo Club in an exhibition. The Nike Air Max 1 ’86 “Big Bubble” will be available for purchase in limited quantities.
Join us for an evening with music, curated by Voodoo Club behind the decks and free drinks and food. Make sure to RSVP here to ensure your spot at the event.
The Nike Air Max 1 ’86 ‚Big Bubble‘ will be available from 26 March via solebox.com and all solebox locations.