For Tracie Jackson, the Nike N7 Collection is very personal.
The Nike graphic designer was taught from a young age by her great-grandmother Phoebe Nez that every color and shape had a purpose that could be altered by many influences, such as creation stories, the environment, and individual experiences.
Phoebe Nez was a member of the Black Streaked Wood People clan of the Navajo Nation who weaved traditional Navajo rugs even as her vision faded in old age. Tracie is passing along her great-grandmother’s legacy in the 10th anniversary of the Nike N7 collection – honoring heritage through special patterns with Pendleton.
“My great-grandmother was still weaving right up until she passed at 92,” says Jackson. “My beginnings with looms, rugs and blankets all started with my grandmother. First, I learned by herding her sheep on her farm, then by carding and spinning the wool and finally working the loom. Without my great-grandmother, I wouldn’t have learned about my culture, and without my culture, I wouldn’t have been a designer. My family ties are what influence my native identity.”
The storm pattern used in the footwear and apparel manifests most visibly in the N7 x Pendleton 7 Generations blanket, brought back in collaboration for the first time since 2013. The pattern is a narrative tapestry of Jackson’s Navajo history, which specializes in designs personal to the individual weaver.
Nike N7 Pendleton Air Jordan 8 available at Hibbett SportsThe Nike N7 Collection is available at Hibbett Sports starting November 7 and features a wide range of footwear, apparel, and accessories.
