Artists & Fleas is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse marketplace, where everyone is invited to showcase their creativity.

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, we are shining a light on our Hispanic merchants in all of our Artists & Fleas markets. Join us in celebrating the richness they add to our creative community by supporting them today and every day.

YAPA

In 2019, Bernarda Pelaez founded YAPA, an alpaca knitwear brand that seamlessly combines style, sustainability, and social responsibility. YAPA’s name is derived from the Quechuan word “YAPA,” which means “to give and to receive.” This reflects Bernarda’s vision to create a brand that not only provides beautiful, high-quality garments but also uplifts the people that produce them.

YAPA is committed to sustainability and empowering local artisans. Bernarda travels back to Bolivia regularly, seeking out talented artisan knitters who possess generations of knowledge in working with alpaca fiber. By collaborating directly with these artisans, she ensures fair wages, safe working conditions, and the preservation of traditional techniques. This approach not only fosters economic stability within local communities but also showcases the exceptional craftsmanship behind each YAPA creation. YAPA’s designs are a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation

APUK

Located near Otavalo, home to the largest indigenous textile market in South America, APUK was born out of a mission to reduce waste and celebrate local artisanship. Having witnessed the waste generated by textile factories in the region, APUK’s founders decided to create something new by upcycling their old jeans. Today, APUK proudly uses 50% recycled material in their clothing which is blended with high-quality 14oz denim.

The Otavalo culture, with its rich history tracing back to pre-Inca times, deeply influences APUK’s designs. The Otavaleños had developed an esteemed reputation for their spinning and textile weaving skills. Inspired by this rich heritage, APUK features these vibrant, indigenous fabrics as the cornerstone of their design language.

Raphaella Colombia

Whether it’s the vivid color palettes that capture the beauty of her home country or the elegant designs that pay homage to the Latin woman, each garment is a celebration of culture. The brand’s roots trace back to the founder’s childhood dreams of making it in the fashion industry. “I knew I would dedicate myself to fashion and wanted to create unique pieces,” she shares.

Raphaella’s deep connection to her Latin heritage shines through in her designs. “I reflect the joy of my country in the color palette and the elegance of the Latin woman in each design” she states. With Raphaella, you’re not just wearing a garment, you’re wearing a piece of art that captures the elegance of Latin America.

Mistica

Mistica is more than a jewelry brand. It’s a journey into the heart of Colombia’s natural beauty. The brand was born out of years of hard work and a constant search for new opportunities. ‘Mistica came at the perfect time,’ the founders explain. Their mission is straightforward yet profound: to offer women accessories who want to highlight their beauty with jewelry that connects them with nature through Colombia’s stunning gemstones.

MOTA

Imagine a brand that captures the vibrant spirit of the Caribbean while solving a fashion dilemma many young women face. Welcome to MOTA Handmade Bags, a brand that started from a lifelong passion for fashion. “Our main goal was to address the issue among young women who shy away from handbags due to their inconvenient size” say the founders. MOTA creates unique reversible bags that double as bracelets. Using materials like wood, bamboo, and rattan, MOTA is a colorful celebration of Caribbean culture.