Inuk artist Jessica Mitchell initially resisted the Labubu trend, reminiscing about her past enthusiasm for collecting Beanie Babies in the ’90s. However, after witnessing fellow Indigenous artists incorporating custom-made ribbon skirts and beadwork into their Labubu creations, Mitchell couldn’t resist joining in. She recently introduced her own unique Labubu design, named Labubukulu, which features sealskin instead of the standard fuzzy fur, combining Labubu with the Inuktitut term of endearment “kulu.”
Mitchell is part of a global community of creators who are infusing Indigenous elements into the popular Chinese collectibles to showcase their skills, connect with their cultural roots, and infuse modernity into traditional practices.
Tlingit artist Lily Hope, known for her human-sized fashion in the Ravenstail and Chilkat styles, has ventured into creating regalia for Labubus, inspired by her children’s fascination with the tiny creatures. Hope’s foray into designing regalia for Labubus, a departure from her usual work, has garnered attention and support, leading her to create various bespoke outfits for the collectibles.
Hope’s exploration into crafting Labubu regalia stems from her desire to showcase the weaving styles of the northwest coast, a craft she learned from her mother, Clarissa Rizal. Despite her initial reluctance towards weaving, Hope found solace in the art form during her twenties, reconnecting with her mother’s teachings and weaving traditions.
Both Mitchell and Hope view their Labubu creations as a means to celebrate their heritage and express their artistry. They take pleasure in witnessing Labubus adorned in diverse Indigenous styles, creating a platform to share their cultural narratives in a unique and modern way.