Jen Zeano Designs (JZD) is a lifestyle brand founded by artist Jen Zeano. Rooted in empowerment, cultural pride, and community, JZD was created as a reminder that we carry the strength and legacy of those who came before us. Through bold design and heartfelt storytelling, Jen uses her art to celebrate identity, amplify underrepresented voices, and build spaces where everyone feels seen and connected to their roots.
Shop JZD T-shirts and accessories in NMWA’s Museum Shop.
JZD was born from a desire for representation and cultural affirmation. Can you share a moment when you realized your work was helping others feel seen and empowered?
One of the first moments that really hit us was when someone messaged us saying they wore our “Latina Power” T-shirt to their first marathon. It reminded us that what we’re creating isn’t just clothing, it’s affirmation, it’s visibility. We remind people they can show up fully and proudly as who they are.
Your brand is grounded in cultura and community. How do you honor your roots while evolving creatively in a rapidly changing world?
We always start with why. Why we’re creating something, who it’s for, and how it connects to our cultura. Even as we evolve, we’re grounded in storytelling, in traditions, in Spanglish, in memories that shaped us. We honor our roots by weaving our lived experiences into every piece, and by staying connected to our community. That means asking questions, listening, and co-creating with the people who wear our pieces.
How do you approach the design process to ensure your pieces reflect lived experiences, not just trends?
It usually starts with a feeling or a phrase that comes up in conversation, something our tias said growing up, something we tell ourselves when life gets hard, or a truth we didn’t see reflected anywhere else. If it doesn’t make us feel something or spark a conversation, we don’t print it.
If your abuelita, your inner niña, and your boldest future self all sat down to design a JZD piece together, what would they create, and what would it say?
It would definitely be bold, bright, and full of heart. Our abuelitas would add a traditional touch, maybe embroidery or florals. Our inner niñas would want glitter or pink or something playful. And our future self would make sure the message was loud and unapologetic. We think it would say: “Estoy aquí, soy magia, y no me voy a callar.” A celebration of presence, power, and voice.