#United States #Philadelphia #Anthropologie #Artisans #Nest Fellowship

Anthropologie's Commitment to Artisan Empowerment

In a bold move to support up-and-coming makers, Anthropologie has officially launched the 2025 Anthropologie x Nest Fellowship Program, in collaboration with the renowned nonprofit Nest. This initiative not only aims to foster creativity among artisans but also promises to enhance customer engagement through a newly established Digital Marketplace, accessible via Anthropologie's website.

A Six-Month Program for Emerging Makers

The Anthropologie x Nest Fellowship Program is structured as a six-month immersive experience, carefully crafted to aid emerging talents in the craft space. Throughout the program, selected fellows will benefit from vital grant funding, tailored mentorship from Anthropologie's team of experts, and specialized educational courses. This unique blend equips artists with the necessary skills to develop and showcase their brands effectively.

Ultimately, the culmination of this journey will be the opportunity for fellows to present their handmade collections on Anthropologie's commission-free digital platform, dramatically widening their audience reach. This innovative approach not only promotes individual creativity but also bolsters community support among artisans and shoppers alike.

Kate Haldy, who heads PR, Communications, and Impact at Anthropologie Group, expressed her enthusiasm for this initiative, stating, "With the launch of our inaugural Nest Fellowship Program, we're deepening our investment in emerging makers by providing them with the tools, mentorship, and visibility they need to thrive." This commitment to supporting women artisans aligns seamlessly with Anthropologie's core values and mission.

Meet the 2025 Nest Fellows

In this year’s fellowship, five outstanding creators have been selected to participate:
1. JUDiTH+ROLFE (Daphne Lee) - Based in Richmond, Virginia, this contemporary paper art studio transforms paper sheets into stunning sculptures.
2. Kolibrí Collective (Alexandra Sánchez Hernández) - Hailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico, this collective creates jewelry pieces that marry bold designs with personal narratives.
3. Moon-Seed (Cathy Williams) - Cathy, inspired by her Caribbean roots, crafts dynamic and colorful jewelry from her studio located in Charleston, SC.
4. More Love, Love More (Sherry Knutson) - Based in San Francisco, California, Sherry blends various mediums like painting and textile art to tackle themes of community and compassion.
5. The Beige Motel (Ashley 'Ash' Corpuz Campbell) - A ceramicist from Seattle, WA, Ashley's vibrant porcelain works reflect her Filipino-American heritage and '90s childhood inspirations.

The Launch of the Digital Marketplace

As part of this initiative, the Nest Digital Marketplace officially debuted today on Anthropologie's website, offering customers a chance to explore and purchase unique collections from the fellows. This platform not only elevates the visibility of these artists but also encourages shoppers to engage with their stories and support independent makers. Rebecca van Bergen, Founder and Executive Director of Nest, highlighted the significance of this partnership, saying, "We are proud to partner with Anthropologie to celebrate and champion women maker entrepreneurs."

The new marketplace represents a significant step in nurturing the craft economy, ensuring that emerging artists gain the exposure necessary to nurture their businesses. By offering such a collaborative space, Anthropologie continues to weave creativity and community into the fabric of its brand identity.

Building a Better Future through Handcraft

Both Anthropologie and Nest believe in the transformative power of creativity. They aspire to build a future where artisans are respected, traditions are celebrated, and communities can thrive. With this fellowship, the duo aims to highlight the undeniable beauty of handcraft in our daily lives, ultimately fostering a more prosperous world for all.

For more details about Anthropologie's partnership with Nest and the Anthropologie x Nest Fellowship Program, visit Anthropologie’s website.

Conclusion

Anthropologie’s inaugural Nest Fellowship Program and Digital Marketplace exemplify how brands can empower creators while enriching customer experiences. As we follow the journeys of these talented fellows, we look forward to witnessing the impact of this initiative on their creative careers and the broader artisan community.