Interview with Moana: The Art of Timeless Craftsmanship at LAMUANA

Interview with Moana: The Art of Timeless Craftsmanship at LAMUANA

Debris (PG): Welcome, Moana! We’re thrilled to explore the creative universe of LAMUANA with you today. To start, could you share your background and the story behind your brand?

Moana (M): Thank you! It’s wonderful to be here. My journey with LAMUANA began as a personal quest. Growing up in Suzhou, a city rich in traditional Chinese artistry, I found myself drawn to a different path. While I didn’t have formal training in jewelry making, I immersed myself in learning from various sources. My family, who were traditional artisans, were initially skeptical of my unique approach, but this only fueled my desire to create something that honors the elegance of the past while bringing in a contemporary flair. Thus, LAMUANA was born—a brand that intertwines tradition with modernity.

PG:That’s incredibly inspiring! What drives your creative vision, especially regarding your unique blend of vintage and modern aesthetics?

M:Timelessness captivates me—the beauty that endures beyond trends. Vintage jewelry possesses this charm; it tells a story woven into each piece. My vision is to incorporate that sense of history into today’s context, making it relevant for a modern audience. I focus on nostalgic elements, like intricate patterns and aged textures, and reinterpret them through a contemporary lens. The result is a collection that feels both familiar and fresh, rooted in tradition yet innovative.

PG: Your material selection is renowned for its intentionality. Could you share more about how you choose materials and their significance in your designs?

M: Materials are at the heart of LAMUANA’s design philosophy. I’m very intentional about what I use because each material carries its own story and energy. Raw silver is one of my favorites; it’s resilient and has a natural beauty that I love. I often pair it with gold plating to create a striking contrast, adding a layer of sophistication. Pearls are another key element—they’re timeless and elegant, symbolizing purity and tradition. I also incorporate other natural stones for their texture and color, which bring a dynamic element to the pieces. The materials I choose are all about creating a dialogue between the old and the new, giving each piece a sense of depth and meaning.

PG: Your "Dreamlike" collection has been a standout. What was the inspiration behind this collection, and how does it reflect your overall design approach?

M: "Dreamlike" encapsulates the essence of LAMUANA. The inspiration stemmed from my desire to take traditional motifs and give them a modern twist. I aimed to create pieces that feel like heirlooms yet are suited for today’s lifestyle. The collection features raw silver, gold plating, and pearls, infused with intricate details that evoke timelessness. It’s about merging the charm of vintage finds with sleek contemporary design, honoring history while looking forward

PG: LAMUANA resonates with a diverse audience. What do you think creates such a strong connection with your designs?

M:I believe it’s the fusion of history and modernity that speaks to people. Vintage elements evoke familiarity, while their transformation into contemporary pieces generates excitement. My designs allow individuals to connect with their past while expressing their current identity. The versatility—whether it’s a necklace that layers beautifully or a standalone ring—enables wearers to craft their own stories. This personal connection makes LAMUANA meaningful to many.

PG: Your journey hasn’t been without challenges, especially with your family’s initial hesitation. How has overcoming those obstacles shaped you as a designer?

M: Overcoming challenges has been a rewarding aspect of my journey. My family’s initial doubts propelled me to prove that my vision was worthwhile. This experience taught me resilience and the importance of staying true to my instincts. I’ve learned to embrace the uniqueness of my perspective, which has made me more confident in my creative choices and committed to exploring new possibilities with LAMUANA.

PG: What’s on the horizon for LAMUANA? Any exciting projects or collections in the works?

M: I’m constantly exploring new ideas and materials. Currently, I’m developing a collection inspired by the concept of "modern heirlooms"—pieces designed to be cherished and passed down, infused with a distinctly modern edge. I’m experimenting with new textures and techniques, all while maintaining that delicate balance between tradition and innovation. Plus, there are collaborations in the pipeline that I’m genuinely excited about. LAMUANA is evolving, and I can’t wait to unveil what’s next!

PG:We’re eager to see what the future holds! Lastly, what message do you wish to convey to those following LAMUANA’s journey?

M: I want to encourage everyone to embrace their unique stories, finding beauty in both the past and the present. LAMUANA celebrates that intersection—where your heritage meets your individuality. When you wear a piece from LAMUANA, I hope you feel connected to something timeless yet distinctly your own. Thank you for being part of this journey and supporting the vision of blending old and new.

PG: Thank you, Moana, for sharing your inspiring insights. We look forward to watching LAMUANA flourish.

M: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to share my journey.