OUR MISSION
Rurban (formerly Roots Studio) has bridged global Indigenous and rural artists with the cultural industries for over a decade, transforming heritage into equitable creative partnerships. Through strategic alliances with brands and master artisans, we've co-developed over 5 million authentic, culturally-rich products across multiple seasons — all through our foundation of respect, reciprocity, and remuneration.
The Rurban Library houses the world's largest digital collection of endangered cultural art forms, with 20,000+ unique designs available for IP licensing, traceable back to every artist.
CURATE AND NURTURE
Our international team brings decades of expertise in high design, grassroots organizing, and retail expertise. We lead quarterly workshops in pattern development, digital literacy, and financial management with our partner communities – building sustainable skills and independence.
SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES
Our vision aligns with the UN’s SDG Goal 11: making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. We create economic alternatives that honor traditional lifestyles, reducing the need for migration while supporting sustainable lifestyles while preserving cultural richness.
FINANCING LAND PROTECTION
Each partnership generates revenue averaging 5x the original selling price for artists. Our profit split structure directs 85% as a community dividend fund and 15% to highly participating artists. The community dividend fund supports Indigenous livelihoods protecting 350,000 hectares of biodiverse forests and lands.
WHERE WE WORK
OUR VALUES
RESPECT
We partner with Indigenous and rural artists globally to honor and deeply understand the meanings behind their work, providing platforms to share their cultural heritage with brands and consumers.
RECIPROCITY
We build trust through consistent two-way dialogue, amplifying voices, observing existing dynamic – creating authentic bridges between cultures through years of reflective practice.
REMUNERATION
Our community dividend fund ensures appropriate artist compensation with regular profit returns. Every design maintains direct traceability to its creator, their family, and livelihood.
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