Kohl's Taps Asian-American Artists for Sonoma Community Private Label Capsule

Department retailer Kohl’s is launching a new Sonoma Community private label collection to honor Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. 

The collection features designs from two AANHPI artists who developed the product assortment that “embraces self-advocacy.” The Kohl’s Diversity Design Council collaborated with artists Emma Daisy and Shyama Kuver to offer an assortment of graphic tops, plush throws, pillows, candles and more. The collection is available online at Kohls.com and in 300 stores nationwide.

“AANHPI Heritage Month is a time for us to honor the AANHPI community's contributions to our country's history, achievements and culture,” said Michelle A. Banks, Kohl’s chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer. “Ensuring an equitable and inclusive environment for Kohl’s associates is a top priority, so we are dedicated to advancing discussions that matter most to AANHPI communities. We look forward to celebrating the AANHPI community, offering ongoing opportunities for growth for our associates and showcasing culture through art in our communities nationwide.”

Daisy is described as a Milwaukee-based visual artist and muralist with a Korean background known for her vibrant use of color, plants, and figural imagery, while Kuver’s artistic practice is “inspired by her queer and Indo-Fijian identities.”

In addition to the new private label products, Kohl’s said it will donate $100,000 to Alliance for a Healthier Generation to support Asian American and Pacific Islander health equity champions and to develop resources that support the health and well-being of Asian-American communities. 

The retailer will also bring its Asian Pacific Business Resource Group (AP BRG) to its stores for career development opportunities. It will also host a guided Tea Tasting, participate in a mental health session with Kohl’s hometown partner with National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Southeast Wisconsin, as well as host a panel discussion between Banks and Asian-American fashion designer Vera Wang. 

Kohl’s operates more than 1,100 stores in 49 states.