This wearable art collaboration connects New York–based designer and artist Alex Proba with Rozi, a 17-year-old Indonesian student living with Down syndrome. When asked to draw what makes him feel at home, Rozi filled his page with bold colors, abstract shapes, and an unmistakable sense of joy. Alex, known for her expressive use of form and color, immediately resonated with his playful composition. She reimagined Rozi’s shapes into a vibrant, flowing design that captures the warmth and safety of home — showing that creativity has no limits, only connections.
Alex Proba is an artist who grew up in a family of doctors in Germany. While she initially tried following in her parents’ footsteps, she later decided to follow her passion. She went on to study Spatial Design and Contextual Design and the rest is history. Since her move to New York in 2011, she has completed some fantastic projects, from 60-foot mural art to viral swimming pool designs. Her art style is abstract, colourful, and the perfect blend between geometric and organic shapes.
Alex Proba about her collab
Giving back to children
Alex is no stranger to working with children. She has her own non-profit initiative, LittleProba. “Through this initiative, I work with children around the world, creating art together, that is then transformed into rugs. These rugs are handmade. All proceeds go directly back to the kids, supporting their communities and giving them a platform to showcase their creativity.”
Alex Proba about her collab
Rozi (17)
For this drop, artist Alex proba collaborated with Rozi (17) from the SDN 4 Batu Putih school in Gili Asahan, Indonesia. All proceeds from the merch contribute to the kids' school. Read our full interview with Alex Proba!
Alex Proba about her collab
A harmonious mix of innocence and artistic style
For her collab, Alex worked with Rozi on an illustration. “I took the key elements from his drawing and reimagined them in a larger, more abstract composition, while still honouring his original work. His drawing represented his hometown, and I wanted to add colour and joy into his home. I blended his shapes with my own, creating a harmonious mix of his innocence and my own style. It was all about finding the right balance, and the entire process was super fun.”
Alex Proba about her collab
Makes you feel like home
The children from the SDN 4 Batu Putih school in Lombok were given the theme of ‘Makes you feel like home’ when making their drawings. With this theme in mind, Rozi captured everything on Gili Asahan, the houses, shops, and of course, his beloved school. When discussing this, Alex says: “Rozi’s drawing is a reminder that home isn’t just a physical place, but the people and experiences that make us feel connected and safe.”
Alex Proba about her collab
A learning experience
At the end of such an eye-opening interview, it’s great to hear that Alex has also gotten something out of this experience. “This collaboration taught me the power of simplicity and the importance of giving space to other people’s voices in the creative process.”