Kottke thinks
Dischord should “lighten up” about Nike’s recent ad campaign. Going even further into the deep end, Jason writes: “Isn’t punk all about taking without permission?”
If I didn’t think that was a rhetorical question, I would answer:
Punk rock design overwhelmingly liberated the artists involved to create new artistic works – in music, graphic design, street art, and Art with a capital “A”.
Just because one can try to correlate this event with sampling in music, or a history of appropriation of corporate logos in skate culture absolutely does not mean that Ian MacKaye’s undies are all bunched up for no reason and that he should “just deal with it” or “get over it” (ie. “lighten up”).
hom·age n.
1. Ceremonial acknowledgment by a vassal of allegiance to his lord under feudal law.
2. Special honor or respect shown or expressed publicly. See Synonyms at honor.
In my opinion, (and there are no shortage of them) Nike clearly crossed the line. And the Blogville International can debate that until the cows come home.
What I think is more interesting is how Nike co-opted the approach of design and logo appropriation. Skate culture has done that for years, everything was fair game for board and t-shirt graphics created by small skate companies.
Now we have one of the largest sportswear companies appropriating the graphic art of a (comparibly) small business. The tables have turned, and for many, it doesn’t feel right.
Why? Because those who think the line was crossed can recognize that Nike isn’t honoring or respecting the contributions of Dischord and Minor Threat to music and culture. It would have been respectful to recognize that use of the graphics was contrary to Dischord’s ethics. It’s a very cynical attempt by a giant corporation which already has global brand recognition at appropriating the approach of start-up skate companies in order to establish themselves in skate culture.
So to answer the (rehtorical) question in Kottke’s post, “Theft or homage?”:
No Respect, No Homage.
Can’t wait to see the Yes Sir, I Skate tour materials.
Update: Nike apologizes in the form of of a gif file letter.
