The brand’s new initiative works to share the voices of diverse artists from across America.
Ralph Lauren is shifting gear from inspiration, to collaboration with the communities who have inspired them for years. As such, it is fitting that the first artist designing for the company’s new Artist in Residence program is Naiomi Glasses, a seventh-generation Navajo textile artist and weaver. The brand announced its Artist in Residence program in 2022 as a continuation of its Design with Intent initiative, a journey dedicated to amplifying the voices of diverse communities across America. For over 56 years Ralph Lauren’s designs have been inspired by the stories and cultures of America and their commitment to diversity reexamines what and who is included in its depiction of the American dream.
The brand announced its inaugural Artist in Residence collaboration with Naiomi Glasses on December 5, 2023. The textile artist is the first of many who will work with the brand to create a collection of clothing inspired by culture. The Ralph Lauren x Naiomi Glasses Collection will be released as three seasonal, special-edition product launches throughout the year of 2024 in celebration of Navajo traditions. The first drop of the collection is available now.
Glasses is a textile artist, designer, and model, who has intensively studied traditional Navajo weaving under her grandmother since her childhood. At 18, she launched her own online custom textile business, highlighting the beauty of Diné (Navajo) culture. Her work has earned her multiple awards and acclaim in weaving divisions. Beyond art, she builds community among native youth through skateboarding– one of her biggest passions. She resides on the Navajo Nation in northeast Arizona with her family.
“Heritage and tradition are at the center of everything I love — things that encompass both beauty and utility, that are uncontrived and personal and are passed down for generations,” said Ralph Lauren
“Heritage and tradition are at the center of everything I love — things that encompass both beauty and utility, that are uncontrived and personal and are passed down for generations,” said Ralph Lauren, Executive Chairman and Chief Creative Officer of Ralph Lauren Corporation. “Bringing the most authentic expression of heritage craft to life means working with those who have created and sustained these timeless traditions for centuries and sharing their stories with the world. That is the opportunity that awaits us.”
The campaign was shot by Ryan RedCorn of the Osage Nation and Daryn Sells of the Navajo Nation, with behind-the-scenes footage captured by Lonnie Begaye of the Navajo Nation. It features a predominantly Indigenous cast and crew, and is accompanied by a short film directed by award-winning filmmaker Shaandiin Tome. The film details Glasses’ family life, the Navajo weaving tradition, and sources of inspiration.
In addition to its focus on Native and Indigenous representation, Ralph Lauren will be donating a percentage of the sales from the first drop of Polo Ralph Lauren x Naiomi Glasses to Change Labs, a Native-led organization which supports Navajo and Hopi small businesses.
“Navajo weaving is a craft that has carried on through my family for seven generations and preserving these traditions in new ways has been so inspiring to me as an artist. To now be able to share it with people around the world, as seen through my eyes and brought to life in clothing, is a dream come true,” said Glasses.
All imagery courtesy of Ralph Lauren.
