by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman
January 28, 2024
Starbucks has released its new designs in celebration of Black History Month, in collaboration with Black artist Damon brown.
Starbucks is starting off the commemoration of Black History Month with its new collection of cups. For the designs, Damon Brown is bringing the corporation of Black figures to the forefront of the inspired assortment.
According to Starbucks Stories, Brown’s inclusion is part of the coffee chain’s Artists Collaboration Series, innovating its longstanding designs for its signature cups owned by its many enthusiasts. While diverse artists utilize their creative passion to amplify events such as Pride Month, this year will commence their first designs for the Black community.
Brown, whose artistic name is Creative Lou, inserted the colors significant to the Black community in his depiction of Black people. Remaining true to Starbucks’ brand while promoting pops of sky blue and cream, these designs are a highlight of Black community members taking the main focus, especially in a contemporary fashion.
“An intentional play on the classic color palette of red, black and green that you may typically see represented in Black art or during Black History Month — to make it more modern and purposeful,” explained Brown on his creation.
Brown is a returning collaborator with Starbucks, having first worked on a mural for a store location in their shared native city of Seattle. His work has since been featured in a poster commemorating their 50th anniversary, bringing back the siren logo. This continuation of his work with the company is especially important to Brown, who hopes that the designs will spark a long lasting joy in customers. According to the artist, the celebration of Black art should be a tradition that can be extends through the year,
“My goal for this collection was for it not to feel that it’s one month only — but taking it farther and giving you something more artistic that can be enjoyed and celebrated beyond February — when it should be every day for us.
The historical cold cups and tumblers will be available across Starbucks locations in the U.S. and Canada starting Jan. 30, while the coffee brand continues to support Black organizations, such as the NAACP and African American Mayors Association, as they serve the community.
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