Local Couple Launches ArtFair Apparel to Showcase Local Artists
Boulder, CO—In the summer of 2024, Lydia Kramer and her boyfriend Ethan Shapiro transformed their shared passions into a vibrant new venture: ArtFair Apparel. The couple aimed to create a unique clothing brand that highlights local artists by printing their works onto apparel while also giving back to the community through donations to artists’ chosen nonprofits.
Kramer, who thrives on creativity, combined forces with Shapiro, who has a business background, to formulate their vision. They hit the road across Colorado, seeking artists starting from Google Maps, and soon discovered their first collaborator—78-year-old Gary Raham, known for his dinosaur-themed coloring books. "Not only do we support Gary as an artist, but he’s also giving back to his art community," Shapiro stated.
Following their early success, they encountered Judy Peterson, 82, whose prehistoric illustrations captivated them. After signing a contract with her, they began promoting her work on social media. A TikTok video showcasing Peterson led to a viral sensation, racking up over 5.4 million views, significantly boosting her sales and visibility.
As ArtFair Apparel gained traction, the couple expanded their artist roster to include Colette Pitcher and Marita McDonough. Their initiative has resulted in over 1,000 sales and a dedicated following, demonstrating the deep connection between artists and their community.
Looking ahead, Kramer and Shapiro envision creating an expansive network of artists, culminating in a yearly gathering for fans and collaborators to celebrate creativity. "We want to connect people who wouldn’t have met otherwise," Kramer emphasized, underscoring their mission to build a community that supports both art and social causes.
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