TOMS, the mission-based footwear brand, is kicking off the first artist series of the year with Stephanie Mercado. The new series celebrates LA-based artists who illustrate the role that self-expression plays in supporting mental health.
Interdisciplinary artist Stephanie Mercado was born in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles. Among the media she uses in her creative practice are painting, printmaking, fabric sculpture, video, and design. Stephanie's Alp redesign incorporates aspects of Mexican culture, folklore and her love of nature into a hand-painted, hand-incised, relief print collage.
"I am passionate about mental health because the stigmatization of self-care and the belief that one has to always act fearless, stoic, and resilient in the face of adversity is unhealthy... For me, achieving mental health is having the presence of mind to realize when something is wrong and to have the tools to adapt, overcome, and resolve an issue to ensure one's safety," says Stephanie.
The TOMS x Stephanie Mercado Alpargata will retail for $59.95.
Folklore-Inspired Mental Health Shoes
TOMS Kicks Off 2023 Artist Series With Stephanie Mercado
Trend Themes
1. Mental Health Fashion - The blending of mental health awareness and fashion shows potential for more creative and expressive designs.
2. Artist Collaborations - Partnering with artists to create unique designs can tap into new markets and offer fresh perspectives.
3. Cultural-inspired Collections - Incorporating cultural details into designs can appeal to diverse communities and foster inclusivity.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion and Apparel - The fashion industry has an opportunity to prioritize mental health awareness and offer a wider range of expressive designs.
2. Art and Design - Collaborating with artists opens doors to new, innovative designs and creative solutions.
3. Retail - Retailers can leverage the power of cultural inclusion to attract a diverse customer base and foster a sense of community through unique product offerings.