Chris Gibbs Explains How Social Studies Is Meant to Teach the Kids

On episode 28 of The HBR Show, Chris Gibbs broke down the concept behind Social Studies’ Art Basel Miami pop-up installation and its various workshops and panels. ”The people might not be aware of it because it’s so damn new,” says Gibbs. “This [Social Studies] is a concept that Angelo Baque along with Shaniqwa Jarvis put together. They had me come in and help—I’m an assistant.” The roster of brands reads like an ensemble cast of a modern-day streetwear Avengers: alongside Baque, Gibbs and Jarvis, the group included 032c, Virgil Abloh, Heron Preston, No Vacancy Inn, Odwalla221, Cali Thornhill Dewitt’s Some Ware, and ELECTION REFORM! The collective’s two-day schedule included screen-printing and tie-dye workshops, all run with a scholastic aesthetic and a do-it-yourself attitude. Gibbs stresses the entire scene’s origins in a DIY movement: “Sure, it’s now blown up and worldwide—people are paying 400 billion dollars for brands and shit—but everything is still run through a DIY sensibility.” Guests are welcome to pose with props at Principal Baque’s desk; the walls and chalkboards decorated with portraits of civil rights leaders and revolutionaries, all references to Baque’s own revolutionary past and his hopes for the future. In fact, Gibbs’ own conversation in this episode often sounds like a pep-talk from the school guidance counselor. ”This is something that is definitely geared toward a younger person,” Gibbs says, gesturing at the installation’s walls. “I’m always tryin