New Balance x Hypebeast : SOUNDS OF AN ICON (2.17.24)

2/28/24

Saturday, February 17, 2024 — Had the pleasure of attending “Sounds of an Icon: Story of the 990,” the first of a series presented by New Balance x Hypebeast at Chela Mitchell Gallery, in Washington, DC. With Chela Mitchell being a native, as well one of the top art dealers in the city, her space was the perfect backdrop for the District’s sneaker and art community to come out to support their own, as the gallery was filled to capacity. The pop-up installation and panel discussion spotlighted Dominick Adams, a District native and owner of SOMEWHERE, one of the premier sneaker boutiques in the city (with multiple locations). He was joined on the panel by Ian Callendar (Suite Nation) & Abdul Fouzi (renowned sneaker collector & podcast host), two more local heavy weights in the city’s sneaker scene.

The conversation touched on a range of topics including the legacy of the 990, the unique relationship between Washingtonians and New Balance, “gorpcore,” and the pros and cons of building a business in your hometown. The series will continue in Baltimore, 3/2/24, but they definitely need to run this back for a part two in DC!!! Here was the view from my vantage, hope you enjoy!