PERSONAL WORK
INSPIRED BY
HUMAN INTERACTION AND TRADITIONS
A series of self-generated concept work prompted by cultural and emotional observations.
KAYAN
PORCELAIN VASES WITH NECK RINGS
The custom of wearing neck rings is related to an ideal of beauty: an elongated neck. Neck rings push the collarbone and ribs down. The neck stretching is mostly an illusion; the weight of the rings twists the collar bone and eventually the upper ribs at an angle 45 degrees lower than what is natural, causing the illusion of an elongated neck. Today, women of the Kayan tribes in Myanmar proudly wear neck rings as a symbol of cultural identity and beauty.
This custom is the inspiration for this collection; each piece having its own distinct shape and size. Every piece is unique, yet as a whole creates a unified tribe.
TIPSY
WINE GLASSES WITH MOVES
While leaving my air conditioner on full blast for two days in a row, I thought to myself, “Poor guy...he must be tired.” So I turned it off and let it rest. I then realized that I often give objects around me certain characteristcs, personalities and emotions. Tipsy is a set of wine glasses inspired by human interaction and movement, be it a group of friends laughing, strangers dancing or a couple having a lovers’ quarrel. These glasses are at constant play with a slight touch of the hand. Made of glass, they are delicate yet they are calling to be played with. In a more serious mood? Simply set the glass on the Acacia wood coaster
RELEASE
ENERGY CLEANSING BARS
Cleansing removes the residual influence of earlier experiences. Researchers have found that washing the body actually relieves the mind of negative thoughts. Just as one can wash away dirt from their body, one can also wash away unwanted thoughts.
These soap on a rope emphasizes the concept of washing away negative emotions that one can often feel. It’s a way to start a new day feeling fresh and renewed.
LIGAYA
BUTACA EASY CHAIR
When the Americans came to the Philippines at the end of the Spanish empire, they saw chairs which they described as “big easy fellows with backs well tilted back and with broad rests for the arms”. They were referring to the “Sillon” or the “Butaca”. Philippine Butacas had a curving seat and a wide reclined back. The arms were flat and long to allow the seater to prop up their feet. Butacas were not upholstered in cloth or leather. Rather, the seats were covered in woven cane or rattan to facilitate ventilation and promote comfort in the humid tropical air.
Ligaya is my grandmother’s name and it is also a Tagalog word that means joy. I have fond memories of my grandmother lounging in her Butaca. She is the inspiration for this piece. This is my take on a contemporary Butaca.