Due to Covid-19 restrictions not allowing guests to be present at the show, Virgil took the opportunity to approach this season in a Cinematic way. Bringing to life the script written by film director Mahfuz Sultan, two separate sets were designed that represented the dreamscape section of the film. Inspired by the Matrix dream sequence, the first set is an infinite white space with over 100 birch trees and a strip mall dojo facade inspired by an old Chicago Dojo used predominantly by Black fighters. The birch trees were strategically placed to allow for models and camera crew to move easily around while also keeping the density of the forest. The sizing of the strip mall dojo was important to feel smaller than the following set, to create the surreal nature of a dream sequence. The second set consisted of a minimal representation of a Dojo. Utilizing the architectural features that define a dojo but using only one material in order to flatten the space, making it look slightly unrealistic.

Professional or Personal
Professional

Creative Discipline
Architecture, Environmental & Interior Design

Role in Project
Show Designer in collaboration with PLAYLAB, Inc. partners Archie Lee Coates IV and Jeff Franklin.

Project Credits
Creative Direction: Virgil Abloh