HOUSTON IS ONE of four cities getting an exclusive collection from Lululemon this summer. The line, titled Rep Your City, is also being released in Atlanta, Chicago and San Francisco. The go-to athleisure brand collaborated with local artist Hugo Pérez to create Houston-centric designs for clothing launching in stores on July 12.
Peréz is a visual artist and muralist who uses a range of mediums to create works that explore the human experience through figurative and abstract works. From his studio based in the East End, he creates pieces that are influenced by his cultural background, historical references and the Southwest landscape. His murals are on view around the city, including at Lululemon’s CityCentre and Willowbrook boutiques. “I am beyond honored to be selected for this project,” he says, “and hope this inspires the next generation of artists of color.”
Items in the collection — including the brand’s famous 5 Year Basic T-Shirt and Align pants for both men and women — feature Peréz’s handiwork in the form of a colorful “Houston,” along with outer-space motifs like flying saucers and rocketships.
A launch party will occur July 23 at Ronin Art House. The free event begins with a sound healing meditation by Saumil Manek, and also includes Tex-Mex bites, live music and a performance by local drag legend Adriana LaRue. “I love the idea of creating an event that’s completely different from the traditional art opening. I want people to experience multiple forms of art in a fun, relaxed environment,” says Peréz, who has also designed a limited-edition screen print available for purchase at the party, with all proceeds benefiting the organization Hatch Youth.
“Art is about connecting with people through visual language,” says the artist, “and this collection is about highlighting the diversity that makes up the fabric of this great city we call home.”
