We’re thrilled to announce that Ralph Lauren’s Artist in Residence program is officially launching, featuring the first collaboration with seventh-generation Diné (Navajo) textile artist, designer, and model Naiomi Glasses.
The program, which is the first of its kind in the company’s five-decade history, sets out to celebrate and preserve heritage and traditional craft, inviting artisans from a variety of disciplines to participate in an immersive design collaboration with Ralph Lauren’s creative teams. The brand looks to expand its portrayal of the American experience through our design processes, product offerings, and marketing campaigns – and shift from inspiration to collaboration with communities that have inspired RL.
Glasses debuts as the inaugural Artist in Residence with the Polo Ralph Lauren x Naiomi Glasses Collection. The collection celebrates the artistry of timeless Navajo traditions through Naiomi’s eyes and will be presented in three seasonal, limited-edition product launches through 2024. The first capsule includes men’s, women’s, and unisex apparel and accessories in a color palate inspired by her homeland in the Navajo Nation.
Contemporary adaptations of cherished Navajo symbols like spider woman and four directional crosses, Saltillo diamonds, and directional wedge weave motifs are incorporated throughout the collection, reflecting the tradition, innovation, and creativity present throughout Navajo culture. Standout pieces include woven jacquard blanket coats and wraps crafted with the natural colors of undyed wool alongside reinterpretations of Ralph Lauren styles like ranch coats and thicket jackets.
The collection also includes an assortment of beautifully crafted knits, velvet tops, timeless layering pieces, and classic Ralph Lauren silhouettes like the iconic polo shirt and baseball cap.
The first drop of the collection will be available to consumers starting December 5th on RalphLauren.com, the Ralph Lauren App, Tmall, and in select global Ralph Lauren stores.
The first capsule will be accompanied by a campaign shot by Ryan Redcorn (Osage) and Darren Sells (Navajo), as well as an anthemic short film series directed by award-winning filmmaker Shaandiin Tome (Navajo).
Glasses, an avid turquoise and silver collector, curated a unique selection of handcrafted silver and turquoise jewelry from seven Navajo and Hopi artisan families, showcased throughout the campaign and available for purchase online and in select flagship doors.
