JanSport, a leading backpack brand in America, has announced a new partnership with ArtLifting, a social enterprise that connects artists facing disabilities and housing insecurity with opportunities in the art market. This collaboration introduces the JanSport X ArtLifting collection, which features the artwork of artists Mia Brown, MJ Cooper, and Sylvia Burnstein on various JanSport products.
The collection is designed to celebrate the unique art practices and stories of each artist. Each backpack in this collection will include an exclusive interior label detailing the artist’s background and artistic journey. Alex Reveles, JanSport’s Vice President of Global Brand Management, expressed the company’s dedication to inclusivity and their excitement about showcasing the work of these artists on their products.
ArtLifting’s co-founder and CEO, Liz Powers, highlighted the platform’s role in bringing together artists who are typically underrepresented in the art market, providing them economic opportunities and a chance to share their stories. This partnership with JanSport enables these artists to reach a wider audience and promote inclusivity through their artwork.
JanSport has a long-standing commitment to creating functional, inclusive, and stylish products. This is exemplified by their Adaptive Collection, launched in January 2023, which was developed over three years of research and product testing in consultation with people with disabilities. The Adaptive Collection includes backpacks and crossbody bags designed for mobility device users.
The phased launch of the artist collaborations begins with Mia Brown’s collection, featuring her designs “White Flowers” and “Mint Julep,” available on various backpacks and bags including the SuperBreak Plus and Central Adaptive Pack. MJ Cooper’s and Sylvia Burnstein’s collections will follow in July and October 2024, respectively. Each artist brings their personal experiences and artistic styles to the collaboration, enhancing the visual appeal and narrative depth of JanSport’s offerings.
Mia Brown’s collection is currently available for purchase, and the upcoming releases from MJ Cooper and Sylvia Burnstein are set for later this year, all available through JanSport’s website.