Keen, Inc. has teamed up with artists from around the world on the Uneek Perspectives content series.
Fans of Uneek footwear have always connected with bold style, fearless exploration, endless creativity and artistic sophistication. Last year, Keen launched a Gallery of Self Expression in NYC, a project aimed at bringing radical self-expression back into vogue. Now, Keen continues its journey of self-expression with the Uneek Perspectives content series, collaborating with artists from around the world who share one thing in common: fearless authenticity.
“This partnership was born out of a mutual respect and admiration for each other’s work,” says Ashley Williams, Keen global Brand Activation Director. “We are fans of each artist we worked with on the project, and every artist is a fan of the Uneek, the sandal of choice amongst people willing to let their self-expression flag fly. We wanted to connect Keen fans with the work of these artists.”
Keen collaborated with nine artists from around the world who specialize in varying styles and mediums to express themselves. Keen commissioned the artists to lend their unique point of view to the Uneek Perspectives content series. The global roster of artists that make the 2017 Uneek Perspectives project include line artist Yu Nagaba of Japan, five emerging American artists studying at the Pacific Northwest College of Art, Japanese calligrapher Mami, Swedish professional artist Emma Lindstrom, New York-based conceptual illustrator Hanna Barczyk and Zebu, an illustration and art duo from Berlin.
“I look for opportunities to reinvent popular styles and designs,” says artist Yu Nagaba. “I like the Uneek because it reinvents the look and design of a sandal. As an artist and designer, I can relate to that.”
The Uneek franchise offers a distinct design and wide variety of materializations, making it a product that resonates with those committed to self-expression, a signature point of view and artistic creativity. Uneek Perspectives is much more than an art commission—the project is a collaboration aimed to inspire and engage, it is a showcase of self-expression and it is a celebration of those who are not afraid to be real. Keen believes that being yourself is what makes you an artist, a sentiment shared amongst fans of Uneek footwear.
“We couldn’t be more excited to work with Keen,” says Don Tuski, president of the Pacific Northwest College of Art. “Their footwear is tremendous and their support for art and design is great. Our students really benefited from working with a forward-thinking company like Keen. We are looking forward to more collaborations.”
To view the Uneek Perspectives content series, please visit http://www.Keenfootwear.com/Uneek.
Please direct Keen media inquiries to Senior Account Manager Greg Fitzsimmons at greg.fitzsimmons@rygr.us.
About Keen: Keen, Inc. is a values-led, independently owned outdoor footwear brand from Portland, Ore. with a mission to responsibly create original and versatile products, improve lives, and inspire outside adventure. Founded in 2003, Keen ignited a revolution in the footwear industry with the introduction of the Newport sandal, launching the concept of Hybrid footwear into the market and setting Keen on a path of driving consistent product innovation that exists today. Keen strives to live by its values, from its products to its actions, and by activating communities and individuals to protect and preserve the places where we work and play. Keen employees passionately endeavor to live fulfilling lives, challenge the status quo, do good, give back, and inspire others. Learn more at http://www.Keenfootwear.com.
Photo courtesy Keen
