US. Tumi is introducing the Tumi Tag Limited Edition Collection of travel cases featuring the graffiti-inspired artwork of urban artist Crash in March 2011.
The premium travel brand has partnered with artist John “Crash” Matos to create four new pieces for its ultra-modern Vapor line of travel cases. Each travel bag will showcase a portion of Crash’s new artwork.
The interior of each bag will prominently feature one of four working drawings created by the artist and include the edition number. Only 1,000 pieces of each of the four styles will be produced, in addition to a one-of-a-kind iPhone case.
“When it comes to conceiving and bringing to market each new product collection, we embrace a multi-disciplinary approach,” explained Tumi CEO Jerome Griffith. “Through our partnership with Crash, we’re able to take his bold, emotive graffiti art and pair it with Tumi’s high-quality design to bring our customers truly innovative, unique art that travels.”
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Artist John “Crash” Matos creates four new pieces for Tumi’s ultra-modern Vapor line of travel cases |
“Creating art on disparate surfaces and textures has always fascinated me and the ability to design something that is changeable in both form and function is exciting,” said Crash. “Through my collaboration with Tumi, I was able to tap into a new level of expression, reflecting my personal style while retaining the unique, innovative design that is Tumi.”
Crash grew up in the South Bronx and began his art career at age 13, using spray paint to tag subway trains and dilapidated buildings. He took his art to canvas in 1978, and presented his first one-man show in 1981. Described as a “visual link” between street life and society, Crash’s work ranges from canvasses, to installation murals. His pieces are held by highly acclaimed venues worldwide, including The Museum of Modern Art in New York, The Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, and those of private collectors worldwide.
Tumi Tag Limited Edition
The collection includes four packing cases: a 20in international carry-on, a two-wheeled 20in international carry-on, a 25in medium trip packing case and a 29in extended trip packing case.
Like all Vapor cases, the Tumi Tag collection features a high performance, triple-layer ABS polycarbonate shell made of ABS polycarbonate alloy for lightness and durability. The cases are constructed with lightweight wheels, aircraft grade aluminium dual tube, patented X-Brace 45 handles, and lighter top and side handles.
Vapor cases also feature protective rubber bumpers that reduce the signs of wear. Intelligently organised and fully lined, certain styles feature removable garment sleeves and tie down straps.
Beginning in March 2011, the Tumi Tag Limited Collection will be available in Tumi stores across the US, selected department stores and online at www.tumi.com





