Sara Flores introduces kené art to high fashion through Dior

The Shipibo-Konibo artist reimagines the iconic Lady Dior bag, blending Amazonian tradition with sustainable luxury as part of the Dior Lady Art Project 2025.

Sara Flores, a renowned artist from the Shipibo-Konibo community, has redefined the iconic Lady Dior bag for the Dior Lady Art Project 2025. Drawing inspiration from Ronin, a mythical being in this culture, she infused the design with Kené patterns and intricate beaded accents, symbolizing a deep spiritual bond with nature.

Launched in 2016, this project allows international artists to transform the iconic accessory into a canvas for creative expression, bridging contemporary luxury with rich cultural heritage.

The Lady Dior, designed in 1995 and popularized by Princess Diana, is celebrated for its timeless elegance and signature "cannage" pattern, inspired by Napoleonic chairs. Through Sara Flores’s artistic vision, this iconic bag becomes a canvas honoring Shipibo-Konibo culture and showcasing kené art—an ancestral tradition rich in symbolism and resilience.

Sustainability meets culture in high fashion

Source: Art Basel 

In her reinterpretation, Sara chose sustainable materials like Piñatex—a vegan leather crafted from pineapple fibers—over traditional animal-based options. This decision reflects her commitment to sustainability, aligning with the values of her community and the growing demand for responsible practices in contemporary fashion. A commitment to the communities they represent.

The collaboration with Dior not only showcases Sara's artistic talent but also fosters the autonomy and social, cultural, and economic recognition of the Shipibo-Konibo people.

Their involvement in this project demonstrates how indigenous art can reach new platforms while preserving its essence, creating a meaningful dialogue between tradition and modernity.