The clothes your wear can fund art - The OWM Grant

Art is influence, and has always been a force for transformation. It challenges, inspires, and shifts culture. Yet the artists driving these conversations often face the biggest barriers—especially those outside traditional institutions, without the right connections or visibility.

We’ve been inspired by incredible initiatives like Ben Broome’s Artist Grant and other independent funding programs step up to address this gap, proving that direct support can make a real difference. But there need to be more of us doing this work. There are too many unheard stories, too many vital projects left unrealized simply because artists lack the resources to bring them to life. If we believe in the power of art to shape the world, we all have a role in making sure those voices are heard—no matter how small our initiatives may seem. Every bit counts.

That’s why we’re launching the OWM Grant—a fund dedicated to artists using their work to create social impact. No rigid criteria, no academic requirements, no complicated reporting—just real support for those whose work matters. 

Like many, we’re tired. Tired of working for algorithms, tired of the performative nature of social media, tired of a content culture that values speed over substance. As a brand, we’ve felt the pressure firsthand—the endless demand to feed the machine, to stay visible, to play a game where engagement matters more than meaning.

Why We’re Doing This:

Like many, we’re tired. Tired of working for algorithms, tired of the performative nature of social media, tired of a content culture that values speed over substance. As a brand, we’ve felt the pressure firsthand—the endless demand to feed the machine, to stay visible, to play a game where engagement matters more than meaning.

We don’t want to build something dictated by trends. We want to create something real, OR NOTHING. Something that values depth over virality, intention over reach. That’s why we’re launching the OWM Grant—a small but growing initiative to carve out space for artists working outside the noise. A space that gives the artist the freedom to create on their own terms. It’s not a big solution, it’s a step. And we hope it grows.

How It Works:

We’re launching a crowdfunding campaign to fund OWM’s operations for the next two years, while committing 50% of our profits to artists—forever. This isn’t a temporary initiative or a marketing move; it’s the foundation of how we want to operate as a brand.

If the campaign succeeds, it allows us to build something sustainable—where the more support and orders we receive, the more we can reinvest in the artists shaping culture. But even if it doesn’t, we’re standing by our commitment: €5,000 is guaranteed, no matter what.

We are creating a model that grows with the community’s support and keeps giving back. And if we don’t receive the support we hope for? We’ll still do what we can—because artists deserve backing that isn’t dependent on trends, algorithms, or external validation. 

Who can Apply: 

We believe that opportunity shouldn’t be reserved for the most visible, the best connected, or those with institutional backing. Too often, funding and recognition go to artists who already have access—to networks, galleries, collectors, and cultural institutions. Meanwhile, those working outside these systems, particularly from underprivileged communities, struggle to be seen and supported.

The OWM Grant is designed to help close that gap. We want to give the same opportunity to artists who have been overlooked—those who lack visibility, financial stability, or access to traditional support systems. Equity is at the heart of this grant: we are committed to uplifting diverse voices, ensuring that age, gender, location, or background do not create barriers to entry.

We don’t require academic credentials, exhibition history, or formal training. If you’re an artist using your work to create social impact, tell stories that need to be heard, and challenge perspectives, this grant is for you. 

The bigger picture : 

The OWM Grant isn’t a one-time initiative—it’s a permanent commitment. As long as OWM exists, this grant will too. 

By dedicating 50% of our profits to artists indefinitely, we’re creating a model that grows with the brand and the community that supports it. The more we succeed, the more we can give back.

This is about building something sustainable, something that lasts. Whether the grant funds one artist or a hundred, whether it grows into something bigger or stays small, what matters is that it continues. Because artists should not have to fight for scraps to do the work that shapes the world.

If you share this vision—whether as an artist, a supporter, or an institution looking to collaborate—we’d love to hear from you. Let’s create something that doesn’t expire, something that keeps giving back.