Ralph Lauren Announces Second Chapter of “Artist in Residence” Program with Navajo Artist Zefren-M
Ralph Lauren has just revealed the next installment of its “Artist in Residence” program, this time teaming up with Navajo artist and weaver Zefren-M. The collaboration, titled RRL x Zefren-M, features a range of apparel, accessories, and even a floor rug, all showcasing a custom color palette created by Zefren-M to honor the Navajo Nation. The collection combines traditional Navajo sewing and weaving techniques with modern RRL applications, offering a unique perspective on the tribe’s story.
The collection includes a hand-knit shawl cardigan, RRL’s classic workshirt, a variety of bags, and a custom rug. The color palette pays tribute to the landscape of Navajo Nation, while the repeating pattern represents the cycles of life and the weaving traditions passed down by Zefren-M’s great-grandmother. The collection also features stamped conchos, metal ornaments bearing markings in honor of Spider Woman, a figure from Navajo mythology who taught the tribe how to weave and create beauty.
“Looking to the past has always been a deep source of inspiration to me and something I convey throughout my art and in my personal style,” said Zefren-M. “Collaborating with the RRL team allowed us to create a unique expression of our shared love of heritage and tradition — all while honoring the stories of the Navajo people.”
To complement the collection, Ralph Lauren has released a short film and will offer a selection of handmade silver and turquoise pieces created by Lyndon Tsosie, a silversmith who Zefren-M previously apprenticed under. As with previous “Artist in Residence” collaborations, a portion of the proceeds from the RRL x Zefren-M collection will be donated to the Lyndon Foundation, an organization that works to preserve heritage and craft and provide opportunities for Indigenous youth pursuing careers in the arts.
The collection will be available at select Ralph Lauren and RRL stores in North America, Europe, and Asia starting November 7, with a release on the Ralph Lauren webstore and app in the US and Canada on November 14. It will then launch via e-commerce in China and Japan on November 18.
Don’t miss out on this unique collaboration that celebrates heritage and tradition while giving back to the Navajo community.
