John Kim Jordan Brand is looking toward the future with the official announcement of the Jordan Design Studio, a new global initiative designed to identify and cultivate the next generation of creatives who could ultimately shape the future of the brand. Rather than simply commissioning established names, Jordan Brand is investing in emerging talent whose work reflects the communities they represent.
The program will launch across eight major cities (Seoul, Tokyo, Mexico City, New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Beijing, and Shanghai) with each location led by an influential mentor deeply connected to their local creative scene. Among the first announced participants are Angelo Baque, founder of Awake NY, and Chris Gibbs, the visionary behind Union LA, Nina Chanel of Chicago and more.
Each mentor will assemble a cohort of up-and-coming creatives who will participate in workshops centered around reimagining the upcoming Air Jordan 1 “Love Letter.” While every city will undoubtedly produce standout concepts, Jordan Brand says only one finalist will ultimately leave their mark on the brand’s design legacy.
In many ways, mentors like Baque and Gibbs are the perfect bridge. Both began as independent voices who earned Jordan Brand’s trust through years of authentic storytelling before becoming collaborators in their own right. Now, they’re being asked to help identify the creatives who could someday follow a similar path. For aspiring designers around the world, the Jordan Design Studio may be the first step toward designing the next iconic Air Jordan.
