My partnership with TOMS Shoes has officially launched! I partnered with them for their Artist Series which celebrates LA-based artists who illustrate the role that self-expression plays in supporting mental health. I am grateful to TOMS shoes for supporting artists in Los Angeles. It helps artists like me feel visible and heard.
One of my original pieces is featured on a pair of TOMS and it brings to life my hand-printed, hand-incised, relief print collage by merging aspects of my Mexican culture, folklore, and passion for nature.
Partnering with TOMS was a childhood dream come true. As a child, I grew up in a fabric store surrounded by textiles. It was my dream to be a fashion designer. I used to cut pieces from my favorite fabrics and make crooked little dresses for my dolls. I still remember my favorite textile patterns and going into the fashion district with my mom and grandma to buy fabrics wholesale. It is a dream come true to have a shoe with one of my artworks that I can share with others.
TOMS recently shifted its impact to focus on providing mental health resources which is one of the reasons I’m proud to partner with them. 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. Feeling safe and connected helps one to thrive, rather than just exist in the world.
Partnering with TOMS has also given me hope. As an artist, we often share our work online and feel like we get lost in cyberspace. TOMS team found my work on Instagram and reached out at a time I needed the support. Thanks to TOMS Artist Series for uplifting our work and for partnering with us to bring more awareness to the importance of investing in one’s health, and wellness, and in the arts and culture of Los Angeles.
