FM Culture
Creative Evolution Takes Center Stage At Mana Contemporary’s “Out of Character” And “From the Feet Up: 50 Years of Sneaks & Beats” Exhibitions
Attention art fanatics! On Wednesday, April 12, Mana Contemporary lit up the art world by launching two amazing exhibits, “Out of Character” and “From the Feet Up: 50 Years of Sneaks & Beats.” These impressive exhibitions exceeded the typical norms of fine art, showcasing the remarkable creative power of vision and innovation.
“From the Feet Up: 50 Years of Sneaks & Beats” – A Riveting Celebration Of Sneaker Culture And Hip-Hop
“From the Feet Up: 50 Years of Sneaks & Beats” was a fantastic exhibit put together by Sean Williams that honored the exciting blend of sneaker culture and Hip-Hop. The show displayed famous sneakers created and worn by well-known rappers and sports stars. You could see legendary names like Tupac, Public Enemy, Run-DMC, and Beyonce being featured. In addition, the exhibit also highlighted the progress of sneaker design, focusing on how technology advancements and sustainability practices have influenced the industry over the last 50 years.
Sneaker design has come a long way since its inception. Initially, it was designed purely for athletic purposes. However, sneaker design has evolved to solve numerous challenges, ranging from comfort to aesthetics.
Moreover, the growth of the sneaker industry has often been fueled by small yet critical innovations. These creations have improved the overall functionality of sneakers and contributed to groundbreaking inventions. In fact, sneakers have become the ideal medium for introducing new ideas and pushing the boundaries of design.
Over the past fifty years, the sneaker industry has seen remarkable growth. This is primarily attributed to the increasing popularity of Hip-Hop and sneaker cultures.
The influence of these cultures has helped to popularize sneaker brands and elevate them to new heights. Furthermore, major technological advancements have played an essential role in transforming these industries into multibillion-dollar enterprises. As a result, sneakers have become more than just a fashion statement; they have become a powerful economic force.
Kicks On Display – The Sneaker Exhibition At Mana Contemporary
Diadora collaborated with rapper Raekwon from Wu-Tang Clan in 2022 to create a model of shoes. The profits from the shoe sales were intended to support Rae’s Community Linx Music competition program. (Shoes: Diadora) Credit: Mana Center
Released in 2020 to honor the 30th year since the release of Public Enemy’s third studio album, “Fear of a Black Planet.” (Shoes: Puma Clyde) Credit: Mana Center
In 2019, Ewing Athletics, a brand established by Patrick Ewing, the renowned center of the NY Knicks, launched this unique collaboration with Capone-N-Noreaga (CNN,) a rap duo from Queens, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of their first album named “The War Report.” (Shoes: Ewing Athletics Rogue) Credit: Mana Center
Vans teamed up with the renowned Hip-Hop collective “A Tribe Called Quest” in 2018 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their highly successful album “Midnight Marauders.” (Shoes: Vans Old School) Credit: Mana Center
Released in 2015 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of hip-hop group De La Soul’s debut album “3 feet High and Rising”. (Shoes: Nike Dunk High) Credit: Mana Center
In 2015, Adidas collaborated with “Parley for the Oceans,” which marked the start of the company’s efforts to manufacture most of its sneakers using recycled plastic waste obtained from Parley for the Oceans. Adidas aims to replace all the polyester utilized in its footwear production by 2024. (Shoes: Adidas Ultraboost21, released in 2021.) Photo credit: Mana Center
“Out of Character” – The Evolution Of Animation As A Fine Art
Prepare to be amazed by the incredible exhibition “Out of Character”! Firstly, this display takes you on a journey through the intriguing development of identity through stylized and unique symbolic artwork, which is presented in various mediums, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and moving animation.
Co-curated by Pierogi Gallery and Willy Hartland, this art show was an absolute must-see for anyone interested in the historical context of animation. Furthermore, “Out of Character” is a captivating journey from when animations were seen as just “cartoons” to their recognition as a basic form of fine art. As such, this exhibition perfectly showcases the incredible evolution of this art form, making it a must-visit for all art enthusiasts.
To begin with, early animations and funny artworks were largely disregarded as fine art. Nevertheless, the emergence of Pop Art in the 1960s and the inclusion of cartoon styles by artists like Lichtenstein marked a significant turning point. As a result, boundaries and divisions within the art world were broken down. However, the animations showcased in “Out of Character” are incredibly diverse in subjects, styles, media, and techniques. These include stop-motion, hand-drawn images, computer software, “lo-tech,” flip books, and even live performance projection. Even though some works reference cartoons, they are not solely corporate franchise products. Instead, they are original and individual creations.
Which Renowned Artists’ Creations Appeared In The “Out of Character’s” Exhibit?
“Out of Character” features the works of famous artists such as Greg Barsamian, David Brody, Nicole Claveloux, Hugo Crosthwaite, R. Crumb, Brian Dewan, Nicole Eisenman, James Esber, Matt Freedman, Drew Friedman, George Griffin, Red Grooms, Willy Hartland, Jaime Hernandez, Emily Hubley, Darina Karpov, Lisa LaBracio, Andy London, Carolyn London, Matt Marello, William McKearn, Morgan Miller, Caroline Mouris, Frank Mouris, Michaela Müller, Gary Panter, Joyce Pensato, Pes, Anna Samo, David Scher, Guy Richards Smit, Kathy Stecko, Nate Theis, Jim Torok, Martin Wilner, and S. Clay Wilson.
A painting called “Purple” by Gary Panter. Credit: Mana Center
Painting by Joyce Pensato. Photo credit: Mana Center
“Hippodrome Hires” by Red Grooms. Credit: Mana Center
The exhibit’s animation program comprised various works with a total running time of 85:13 minutes. Different eye-catching pieces on display were Western Spaghetti by Pes, New York City Sketchbook by Willy Hartland, and The Lost Tribes of NYC by Andy and Carolyn London.
Mana Contemporary’s passion for featuring original and creative artwork is shown through two exhibitions. These exhibits demonstrate the art space’s ongoing commitment to pushing the limits of art. With a firm focus, Mana Contemporary continues to present thought-provoking and boundary-breaking art, appealing to the minds of art fans and pushing the limits of creativity.
Sean Williams – A Visionary In The Sneaker Industry
At the tender age of 13, Sean Williams, a Brooklyn native, fell in love with sneakers. By 15, he was already buying his own pairs. But that was just the beginning! In 2007, Williams co-founded Obsessive Sneaker Disorder (OSD) LLC, an organization that strives to “Appreciate, Educate, Elevate” the sneaker industry. What a visionary!
Sean is serious about inspiring and pushing younger generations to pursue careers in the industry. He has dedicated himself to this mission, and his hard work has not gone unseen. In fact, he has been featured in many publications, TV shows, and websites. For example, Maxim and Complex magazine have named him to their list of “50 Most Influential People in Sneakers Right Now.” This honor is thanks to Williams’s impact on the industry and his endless efforts to inspire and motivate the next generation of sneakerheads.
Sean Williams, the founder of Obsessive Sneak Disorder and curator of the exhibition “From the Feet Up: 50 Years of Sneaks and Beats.” Credit: Brian Cheng
But wait, there’s more! In 2018, he was named the first-ever Rankin Scholar in sneaker culture at Drexel University, a testament to his expertise and dedication to the industry. He even co-curated the first-ever Hip-Hop apparel and sneaker exhibition in New York City, which over 9.8 million people viewed. Now that’s what I call making a lasting impact!
To top it off, Business Insider recognized Williams on their “Power List: 28 Most Outstanding People of Color Transforming the Sneaker Industry” in 2020. This shows that Williams’ hard work and effort have not gone unnoticed. His contributions to the sneaker industry are truly remarkable. Plus, his passion and drive will inspire many more individuals in the coming years.
Mana Contemporary: Leading The Way In Celebrating The Creative Process
Mana Contemporary, based in this former tobacco warehouse in Jersey City, New Jersey, celebrates the creative process. The institution aims to create a diverse community of artists within its vast network of exhibit spaces, studios, and galleries.
Mana Contemporary in Jersey City, New Jersey. Credit: manacontemporary.com
In addition, Mana Contemporary is a vibrant, welcoming place that supports artistic growth and collaboration. The institution has a diverse range of programs and events, encouraging artists to thrive and connect with each other. The organization’s creative approach to the arts constantly engages and inspires visitors.
Inside of Mana Contemporary. Credit: manacontemporary.com
Without a doubt, Mana Contemporary is more than just an arts organization. It is a dynamic community where artists and fans come together to celebrate creativity and pursue their passions.
For more information, visit www.manacontemporary.com
Written by Nikiya Biggs | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn
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