Maison Margiela has launched the “Tabi: Collectors Exhibition” at The Third Avenue Art Museum in Chengdu, China, running from April 9 to April 13, 2026. This immersive showcase features the personal archives of nine global collectors, including artist Theaster Gates and musician Zion.T, alongside a curated selection of the house’s own historical footwear dating back to 1989. The event is a key component of the brand's "MaisonMargiela/folders" initiative, which includes a series of regional activations across China and a digital open-source archive.
This exhibition signifies a strategic shift toward radical transparency and community engagement for the luxury house under its current creative direction. By elevating the personal collections of individuals alongside museum-grade archives, Margiela is blurring the lines between fashion, art, and personal history. The project’s open-source digital component further democratizes access to the brand’s intellectual property, reflecting a modern approach to heritage preservation in the digital age.