Tina Jiang
Yutong (Tina) Jiang
Artist & Designer
Selected Works
- Oasis of Sustainability: Cruess Courtyard Redesign
- Sneakerology 101
- DaOwAGa Theme Park Design
- Effort
- Visaid
- Pedal Playoffs
Yutong (Tina) Jiang
Artist & Designer
Manetti Shrem Museum Exhibition Design
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Humans had been wearing shoes for thousands of years, primarily as a means of protecting their feet from harsh terrain and environmental conditions. However, the concept of sneakers as we know them today — footwear with rubber soles designed to enhance athletic performance — did not emerge until the late 18th century. This innovation marked a significant shift in the purpose and design of shoes, as they transitioned from purely practical items to specialized tools catering to sports and physical activity. By the 20th century, sneakers had undergone tremendous evolution in both design and functionality, propelled by advancements in technology and the growing popularity of sports. The rise of basketball, in particular, played a pivotal role in popularizing sneakers among the general public. As the sport gained traction, so too did the demand for footwear that could enhance performance on the court, ultimately giving birth to the term "sneaker" and solidifying its place in mainstream culture.
The exhibition delved deeply into the intricate relationship between human behavior, societal trends, and shoe choice, offering a multifaceted exploration of how sneakers have transcended their utilitarian origins to become cultural icons. Through this lens, audiences were invited to consider the ways in which sneakers reflect broader social and cultural dynamics, including fashion trends, technological innovation, and shifting values over time. The exhibition highlighted the significant role sneakers have played in various contexts, from their use in athletic competitions to their influence in everyday life, artistic expression, and even political statements.
Showcasing over one hundred pairs of shoes from across the globe, the exhibition spanned centuries of history, from the late 18th century to the present day. Each pair told its own story, shedding light on the diverse roles sneakers have played in different cultures and occasions. The collection included groundbreaking designs from renowned shoe designers, iconic footwear worn by world-famous celebrities, and rare, highly coveted pieces from the collections of sneaker enthusiasts. Together, these exhibits painted a rich and detailed picture of how sneakers have evolved from humble beginnings to become a symbol of individuality, creativity, and social identity. By presenting these narratives, the exhibition not only celebrated the artistry and craftsmanship behind sneaker design but also illuminated the profound cultural and historical significance of these seemingly ordinary objects.
Humans had been wearing shoes for thousands of years, primarily as a means of protecting their feet from harsh terrain and environmental conditions. However, the concept of sneakers as we know them today — footwear with rubber soles designed to enhance athletic performance — did not emerge until the late 18th century. This innovation marked a significant shift in the purpose and design of shoes, as they transitioned from purely practical items to specialized tools catering to sports and physical activity. By the 20th century, sneakers had undergone tremendous evolution in both design and functionality, propelled by advancements in technology and the growing popularity of sports. The rise of basketball, in particular, played a pivotal role in popularizing sneakers among the general public. As the sport gained traction, so too did the demand for footwear that could enhance performance on the court, ultimately giving birth to the term "sneaker" and solidifying its place in mainstream culture.
The exhibition delved deeply into the intricate relationship between human behavior, societal trends, and shoe choice, offering a multifaceted exploration of how sneakers have transcended their utilitarian origins to become cultural icons. Through this lens, audiences were invited to consider the ways in which sneakers reflect broader social and cultural dynamics, including fashion trends, technological innovation, and shifting values over time. The exhibition highlighted the significant role sneakers have played in various contexts, from their use in athletic competitions to their influence in everyday life, artistic expression, and even political statements.
Showcasing over one hundred pairs of shoes from across the globe, the exhibition spanned centuries of history, from the late 18th century to the present day. Each pair told its own story, shedding light on the diverse roles sneakers have played in different cultures and occasions. The collection included groundbreaking designs from renowned shoe designers, iconic footwear worn by world-famous celebrities, and rare, highly coveted pieces from the collections of sneaker enthusiasts. Together, these exhibits painted a rich and detailed picture of how sneakers have evolved from humble beginnings to become a symbol of individuality, creativity, and social identity. By presenting these narratives, the exhibition not only celebrated the artistry and craftsmanship behind sneaker design but also illuminated the profound cultural and historical significance of these seemingly ordinary objects.
Date
Instructor
Collaborator
Keywords
Tools
May 2023
Timothy McNeil
Xuming Zhu, Maria Galvan-Orozco
Public Spaces, 3D Modeling & Rendering, Sustainability, Community Engagement
Vectorworks, Rhino 7, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Figma, Twinmotion, Mixmedia for design prototype
PROJECT OVERVIEW