This collaboration, featuring Arviso’s unique designs, captured the intersectionality of art, fashion, and style, highlighting upcoming trends in Indigenous streetwear and the cultural significance of Native American heritage in modern urban spaces.
In a unique celebration of art, fashion, and style, renowned fashion editor and founder of Native Max Magazine, Kelly Holmes (Mnicoujou Lakota), recently conducted a photoshoot featuring the work of multimedia artist and designer Jeremy Arviso. A creative visionary of Navajo/Diné, Hopi, Pima, and Tohono O’odham heritage, Arviso’s designs brought a new dimension to Indigenous fashion.
The photoshoot’s primary goal was to capture the beauty at the intersection of traditional art techniques and contemporary styles. Native American models Donovan and Taven Beuke (Picuris Pueblo/Apache) exclusively wore Arviso’s signature pieces, many of which showcased his unique brushstroke style. This distinctive technique, honed over a long career in style writing, graffiti, and calligraphy, seamlessly blends these forms into a cohesive artistic expression.
Holmes’ expertise behind the camera highlighted Arviso’s creations’ intricate details and vibrant energy. The photoshoot promoted these exclusive pieces for sale and set the stage for upcoming trends in streetwear infused with handmade qualities. This juxtaposition starkly contrasts the typical expectations of Indigenous fashion, introducing a fresh and dynamic perspective.
Taking place in various areas of Denver’s Ri-No district, the photo shoot was set against a backdrop known for its vibrant graffiti and art scene. This area, however, is also marked by the displacement of Black and Brown neighborhoods and significant gentrification, making it a complex and layered setting for the photoshoot. The choice of this location holds profound significance for Holmes and Arviso, drawing parallels to the ongoing challenges of displacement and cultural erasure faced by Indigenous communities. By situating the photoshoot in this context, Holmes and Arviso underscored the resilience and enduring presence of Native American culture amidst changing urban landscapes.
This collaboration between Holmes and Arviso aimed to diversify the narrative of Indigenous fashion, honoring the traditions of those who came before while pushing the boundaries of what is expected today. The photo shoot is a testament to the evolving landscape of Native American fashion, celebrating both heritage and innovation.
