San Leandro, Calif., January 22, 2008 - JanSport, the original outdoor gear brand that equips people globally with quality backpacks, travel gear and collegiate apparel, today announced its Spring 2008 Artist Series Collection. Scouring the scene to create a community of some of the world's most cutting-edge artists, from street graffiti to acrylic and digital mavens, JanSport merges street art with fine art in its new Spring 2008 Artist Series. The collection's backpacks, messenger bags and 22" expandable uprights feature four limited-edition designs by underground artists Julie West and JoeX2.

In celebration of the new collection, JanSport will kick off its Spring 2008 Artist Series with an official launch party on Jan. 31 in New York City with special guest musical performances by OM recording artists J Boogie and hip-hop superstar Ladybug Mecca (Digable Planets).

About the Artists

JoeX2
Collections: "Seeing Red" and "JoeX2" By way of Philadelphia, JoeX2 has been at the forefront of the graffiti movement in Los Angeles since the late 80s. While previously focusing on the community art subculture, JoeX2's work has evolved in the last few years mixing his heritage old-school style of underground graffiti with everything from island flavor to cultural materialism.

Julie West
Collections: "Tree People" and "Girl With Balloons" A native Midwesterner and an artist from an early age, Julie West is no stranger to the paintbrush or the digital medium. Her work relies heavily on people and their environments, examining how they live and define themselves. The end result is often quirky, bizarre or ironic-a reflection of the unique moments that make us all human.

"Since JanSport is the reference backpack brand, we have a unique opportunity from a product development and distribution standpoint to target a more sophisticated consumer who wants to use art to express their individualism and personal style," said Paula Kosmatka, director of product design and development for JanSport. "The Artist Series connects artists and their art with consumers who love JanSport for its 40-year heritage of innovation, quality and reliability."

JanSport's Spring 2008 Artist Series will be available at select retail locations beginning April 2008.

About JanSport Founded in 1967, JanSport is the original outdoor gear brand that equips people globally with quality backpacks, travel gear and collegiate apparel. Headquartered in San Leandro, California, JanSport stands for fun and discovery. The company's products are sold in retail stores throughout the world.