If you ever worked with Ken and I during the 90s and 00s, you know how different we were as people, and the perspectives and opinions that followed. For many this would lead to conflict, dysfunction, and an ultimate unraveling of the partnership. But for us it was the opposite, acting more as our superpower, and the bedrock to everything we built together. Our creative process was full of differing views, and constructive disagreement, which would often lead to exponential outcomes, as we discussed our differences, and considered the other's perspectives... 1+1 =3. This allowed us to cover considerable ground with regard to culture and markets, both micro and macro, making it difficult for our competitors to keep pace. This was most evident in the brand projects we championed. For me it was about cultivating energy at the street level though partnerships in art, music and fashion, which led to the introduction of the first artist + footwear collaborations in the market, with emerging superstars like Kaws and Shepard (2000-2002), while Ken built bridges into MTV with Rob Dyrdek and Travis Barker, and proceeded to scale Action Sports to all time highs, while introducing Motorsports to this world and media format. It was a balance aimed at maintaining credibility within our street communities, while growing the brand into the broader marketplace. This image in particular is the perfect embodiment of our creative partnership, and the balance we struck. The outwear aesthetic is bold and bright, perfectly suited for Ken, and his personality, but attributed to the work I did with legendary designer Peter Saville (Joy Division + New Order) and the multi-graphic snow capsule we developed together (2007). This endeavor allowed me to work with my #1 graphic design hero for the purpose of creating an innovative new product story for Ken's snow-based marketing endeavors. A one of a kind partnership that stood the test of time. Forever grateful. ⚔️ @kblock43 @dcshoes #kb43legacy #kb43ver