iconic footwear parts form kinetic sculpture to celebrate breakdancing’s olympic debut

1520: Lazerian’s Sculptural Tribute to Breakdancing at Selfridges

Lazerian creative studio introduces 1520, a sculptural piece by Liam Hopkins and Daren Newman, part of the Sportopia campaign celebrating breakdancing’s Olympic debut. Showcased at Selfridges Manchester, the sculpture is inspired by the movement and energy of breakdancing, and features an avian form with ethereal wings, symbolizing the fluidity and spontaneity of the dance.

Anchored by a manhole-like base, the sculpture reflects the urban roots of breakdancing, linking the streets of New York City and Manchester. Brass jet-like bars rise from the base, representing dynamic energy and forward momentum, supporting the avian form. The avian figure, crafted from Jesmonite and suede, nods to iconic breakdancing footwear such as the Adidas shell toe and Puma suede shoes. The use of Jesmonite for the shell toes captures intricate details and ensures durability, while the suede wings, laminated for strength and laser-cut for precision, enhance the sculpture’s aesthetic and functional properties.

1520 fuses contemporary sculpture with street culture

Through 1520, Lazerian’s Liam Hopkins in collaboration with designer Daren Newman fuse contemporary artistry with cultural homage, celebrating the vibrant roots of hip-hop and breakdancing. The kinetic nature of the artwork ensures the sculpture is in perpetual motion, mimicking the fluid movements of breakdancers and embodying their defiance of gravity. The design pays tribute to 1520 Sedgwick Avenue in The Bronx, NYC, the birthplace of hip-hop, and channels the raw energy of street culture. As part of the Sportopia campaign, 1520 will be on display at Selfridges Manchester throughout the Olympics, offering viewers a dynamic and culturally rich experience. The open wings of the avian form sway with the breeze, creating a sense of movement and life within the sculpture.

project info:

name: 1520
designer: Lazerian | @lazerian_studio

lead designer: Liam Hopkins 

collaborative designer: Daren Newman | @daren_newman

client: Selfridges Manchester | @theofficialselfridges

photography: Gunner Gu Photography | @gunner.gu

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.