On Nov. 11, a unique collaboration emerged between Most Incredible Studio, Black Archives and LEGO, introducing the limited-edition roller skate art piece titled “How We Roll.” This project not only showcases creativity but also honors the rich legacy of Black roller skating culture.
Most Incredible Studio, the first Black-owned creative studio for LEGO art, was founded by Syreeta Gates and Randall Wilson. Alongside them, Black Archives, established by Renata Cherlise, is dedicated to telling Black stories through memory and imagination. Together, they have crafted a piece that resonates deeply with the community.
What’s inside the How We Roll set?
The How We Roll set comprises 428 LEGO pieces and an instruction manual that serves as a narrative journey through the history of Black skating culture. The manual is enriched with archival images and footage, including a custom photo shoot by visual storyteller Joshua Taylor from Chicago and an interview with the owner of the iconic skating venue, “The Rink.”
In an interview with Black Enterprise, Gates shared, “This is a gift we created together to honor Black skating culture.” The set is designed to be interactive, allowing enthusiasts to assemble the pieces or simply display the beautifully designed box, which features archival images on every side.
Ways to interact with ‘How We Roll’
The LEGO set offers various ways to engage with it. While it comes with a stand for showcasing the assembled skate, fans can choose to keep it in the box, which is a work of art in itself. In the same interview, Gates noted, “We have really gone above and beyond. There are so many ways to interact with the gift.” The skate, available in striking black, grey and red colors, pays homage to the iconic look of Black skaters.
Gates reminisced about her childhood, recalling how owning a pair of black skates was a symbol of seriousness and skill in the skating community. She stated, “You were renting skates if you had a pair of black skates, so this skate pays homage to that greatness.” This sentiment is woven throughout the design and presentation of the How We Roll set.
A labor of love
From the packaging to the pieces and the manual, How We Roll is a timeless tribute to Black skate culture. Gates hopes that those who build or admire the set will feel the love and energy infused into it.
This initiative not only serves as a nostalgic reminder for those who have cherished memories at skating rinks but also aims to educate the next generation about the significance of Black skate culture.
