The three artists who have been selected include:
- Maruja Panti, Catanduanes, Philippines: Maruja is a self-made artist. She believes, "No one colors the world and reflects the light exactly the way you can," and that her art goes beyond its form. Her work explores topics of feminism, beauty and contemporary struggles of peoples, especially women, today. Her commissioned artwork for the SunChips Original flavor tells a story of embracing individuality by following your passions.
- Darnell "Solo" Kirkwood, Los Angeles, California: Darnell believes art has empowered his appreciation to creatively shift narratives, allowing him to be more present and one with the universe. The energy of each piece, including his commissioned artwork for the SunChips Garden Salsa flavor, derives from and is dedicated to the journeys traveled through the perseverance of both dreamers and visionaries – against all odds.
- Megan Lewis, Baltimore, Maryland: Megan's work allows her to communicate meaningfully and think outside the intellectual and artistic “holding” patterns. Her paintings depict Black men and women usually existing in a resting position, focusing on their facial features and accented by swings of color and thick paint strokes. Her commissioned artwork for the SunChips Harvest Cheddar flavor celebrates a season of harvest with vibrant plants and colors.
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In addition, SunChips is donating $100,000 to YoungArts, an organization that identifies exceptional young artists, amplifies their potential and invests in their lifelong creative freedom.
“At YoungArts, we value the creative expression that comes from a multitude of lived experiences,” said Angela Goding, senior director, strategic partnerships at YoungArts. “We’re grateful to join SunChips in celebrating how artists connect us through their uniquely personal work.”