Art and footwear have long been intertwined, but this innovative new collab between Boston tech sneaker startup Endstate, Vibram soles, and the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) kicks it up a notch. The distinctive shoe merges fashion with technology to celebrate a new South Korean exhibit, Hallyu! The Korean Wave.
The style, which drops March 24, showcases South Korea’s influence on today’s pop culture. Within the shoe, a Near Field Communication (NFC) chip connects customers to unique perks. Museum visitors can enjoy VIP and early entrance plus two MFA Late Nites and exclusive behind-the-scenes access to curatorial content.
“These are not just exceptionally designed sneakers and apparel, they are experiences. The technology promises to redefine expectations of what products can truly deliver. Through this new collection, visitors to the Hallyu! exhibition can embark on an exclusive journey that goes beyond what’s currently on view at the Museum, and connect to art in new ways.” —Bennett Collen, Cofounder & CEO of Endstate.
The custom-designed sneakers and apparel feature works from the museum’s renowned collection of Korean Art. The new line includes one sneaker, two t-shirts, and two sweatshirts that were inspired by six objects from the MFA’s collection. They include one contemporary work and five historical works from the Joseon Dynasty, the last dynastic kingdom of Korea that lasted just over 500 years.
“The MFA continues to share works in the collection in unique and innovative ways, and we’re excited about this new partnership with visionary brand Endstate,” says Debra LaKind, Senior Director of Intellectual Property and Business Development at the MFA. “Pushing the boundaries of wearable and functional art, this new collection broadens access to the Museum’s world-class Korean collection and brings works to life through fashion, demonstrating how the past can influence contemporary designs.”
Retailing for $250, the sneakers are ultra comfortable with Vibram’s Strighton Cup sole 2148. Tomorrow, Thursday March 21, Vibram will host a preview of the shoe at its Boston Connection Lab.
