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Previous Next < Back Elizabeth Clenci Harmony Within and Without: Filipino Heritage and the Pursuit of Holistic Health Images provided by Elizabeth Clenci In traditional Asian thought, health is more than the absence of disease—it’s a harmonious interplay of body, mind, spirit, environment, and social relationships. From Chinese and Indian philosophies to Filipino and Vietnamese practices, this holistic view values proactive care, daily practices, and balance as essential to life’s vitality. Illness is not an isolated event to be treated reactively, but a sign of imbalance in the ecosystem of our lives. By nurturing harmony—within oneself and with the world—one creates a foundation for resilience and growth. In contrast, Western approaches often treat symptoms in isolation, missing the interconnectedness that Asian traditions hold sacred. ROOTS OF RESILIENCE Elizabeth Clenci’s path reflects this integrative perspective. Born in Australia to a Filipina mother and Romanian father, Clenci was grounded in the rich traditions of her maternal roots—traditions where health security is seen as a communal, daily practice of balance. Her mother, from Cebu and Mindanao—regions celebrated for their dynamic cultures—imparted these values early on. Cebu, with its famed lechon and the vibrant Sinulog Festival, pulses with life-affirming traditions, while Mindanao’s rich musical heritage, including the kulintang and other gongs, taught her the power of rhythm and connection. Growing up in predominantly white Australia, Clenci felt these cultural practices as an anchor. She remembered being one of only two Asian students in her primary school, yet always finding comfort in her family’s daily rituals—sharing meals, honoring elders, and gathering to celebrate music and community. Her mother instilled a respect for family and elders, a principle she carries forward. “Respect for everyone is at the heart of Filipino culture,” Clenci noted, recognizing how this mirrors the reverence Indigenous communities in Australia hold for their own elders. PAGEANTRY AS A PLATFORM FOR PURPOSE This grounding in holistic well-being naturally wove itself into Clenci’s pursuits. As a child, she would watch the Binibining Pilipinas pageant on television with her grandmother, dreaming out loud, “I will be there one day.” In 2011, she fulfilled this promise, stepping onto the Binibining Pilipinas stage in Manila. Although she carried with her the sadness of her grandmother’s passing the year before, her presence was a tribute to the woman who first sparked her dream. HONORING ANCESTRY THROUGH ARTISTRY At the pageant, Clenci wore a national costume designed by Jearson Demavivas, earning the Best in National Costume award. Even in her earliest pageant appearance, she understood that pageantry was not merely a showcase of beauty, but a stage for embodying values—confidence, kindness, and cultural pride. Six years later, Clenci returned stronger and more rooted in these values. She earned the title of 2nd Runner-Up at Miss Grand International 2017, wearing a T’boli-inspired gown by Demavivas—an exquisite creation that paid homage to the T’boli tribe. The ensemble featured the T’nalak fabric and the hegelung, a native T’boli guitar, both symbols of her rich cultural heritage and love for music. Intricate beadwork and cultural motifs adorned the gown, offering a modern interpretation of a T’boli princess and reinforces Clenci’s commitment to honoring her roots on the global stage. ADVOCACY FOR PEACE AND PERSONAL AGENCY “People think peace is only a governmental issue, but it begins within us,” she asserted. Her appointment that same year as a peace ambassador by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) emphasized her belief in personal agency. Education, she said, is the key—empowering individuals to shape healthier, more harmonious communities. MUSIC AS A METAPHOR FOR LIFE This philosophy of synergy also threads through her work as a musician. Having studied contemporary and improvisational music in Sydney, alongside classical training at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, Clenci’s music is as diverse as her heritage. She draws from the pulsating beat of the Tinikling—where dancers nimbly weave between clashing bamboo poles—as a metaphor for Filipino resilience. “Music is a whole ecosystem,” she said. “The steady beat is life’s forward momentum. Just as music never stops, neither does the Filipino spirit of Tiyaga—perseverance.” HEALING FROM WITHIN For Clenci, health became deeply personal when she faced a severe case of eczema in 2014—a condition that tested her physically and mentally for over a year. “It was painful, and it felt like it was written on my face. It was hard to see beyond that,” she shared. Yet, drawing from the Asian principle of proactive care, she approached her recovery holistically: educating herself, rethinking her lifestyle, and seeking balance in her mind and environment. Transforming her pain into purpose, she became a detoxification specialist and health advocate, grounding her advocacy in lived experience. “I have been through a lot since I was young, suffering emotionally and physically,” she said. “But it was not in vain. To be able to help others is worth it.” SHARING WISDOM AND MINDFUL LIVING On her social media platforms, Clenci shares insights on mindful living—encouraging others to eat well, hydrate, and honor their bodies as sacred vessels. She sees health not as a quick fix, but as an ongoing dialogue between self, environment, and society. To those navigating their own challenges, she offers this advice: “Being able to embrace your vulnerability is your greatest strength. Sometimes the person who is less qualified is the person who is most qualified to speak. At the end of the day, all we want is to be vulnerable, be yourself, and be able to connect with others.” Her story affirms the timeless wisdom of Asian traditions: that true well-being is found in the balance of all things—body and mind, family and community, spirit and environment. In this harmony, Elizabeth Clenci continues to live—and to inspire—a life of health, purpose, and service. As she says, “Life is bigger than you, and life is about service.” INCANDESCENCE THROUGH ADVERSITY Yet, beyond balance alone, there is something luminous in the way Clenci has lived her life—a quality best captured by the word incandescent. Not merely glowing, but burning with a fierce inner light born of struggle, clarity, and compassion. To be incandescent is to shine not despite hardship, but because of it. Clenci’s journey—through cultural duality, physical pain, and emotional endurance—has lit a path for others, transforming personal challenge into radiant purpose. Elizabeth Clenci.jpeg Elizabeth Clenci.jpg Elizabeth Clenci.jpeg Elizabeth Clenci.jpeg 1/4 Images provided by Elizabeth Clenci Previous Next

< Back Kermit Tesoro Cultural Heritage and Sustainability: The Essence of Kermit Tesoro's Work Kermit Tesoro’s designs bloom with intricate beauty and untamed wildness, deeply rooted in the vibrant tapestry of tropical flora and fauna. As a master horticulturist, he cultivates each piece with meticulous care, drawing inspiration from the organic curves and textures of nature. His creations are not just garments and shoes, but living ecosystems, where fabrics intertwine like vines and textures blossom like exotic flowers. Tesoro’s fascination with cacti and succulents is evident in his work, where spiky embellishments and robust structures evoke the hardy yet alluring nature of these desert plants. His bold shoe designs, featuring towering heels and intricate patterns, push the boundaries of traditional footwear. Each stage of Tesoro’s design process is a period of extreme creative silence, a calm before the storm, where ideas germinate and take root in his imagination. As he nurtures these concepts to fruition, the anticipation builds until the final reveal erupts with provocative brilliance. His designs are a symphony of the natural world, transforming wearers into walking manifestations of the botanical wonderland he so passionately adores, reflecting the resilience and exotic beauty of both tropical and arid landscapes. FROM MANILA TO BERLIN A pioneering Filipino artist originally from Manila and now based in Berlin since 2018, Kermit Tesoro has electrified global fashion with audacious footwear creations, installation art, and fashion designs. Trained at Central Saint Martins University of the Arts London, the Fashion Institute of the Philippines, and the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts, Tesoro gained prominence with avant-garde shoe designs and organic, abstract body-enhancing silhouettes showcased at Philippine Fashion Week for six consecutive seasons beginning in 2008. One of his earliest and notably innovative designs was his reinterpretation of the “Bakya,” a traditional Filipino wooden clog featuring towering 9” heels. This creation along with more than 100 designs from other artists were featured in the “Stepping in Pinoy Style” exhibition at the Yuchengco Museum in the Philippines in 2009, a visual conversation highlighting the cultural significance of traditional Filipino footwear. ICONIC DESIGNS The skull heel, or “The Seat of Intelligence,” a daring fusion of the macabre and the elegant, underwent an extensive two to three years design process according to Tesoro. The prominent skull on the heel, combined with neutral colors, is reminiscent of Georgia O’Keeffe’s painting “Ram’s Head.” The curvature of the shoes, like the flower on the painting, is a reminder of its conflicting elegance. This design went viral globally, inundating Tesoro’s Facebook inbox with messages. “If it wasn’t for the skull heel, I would be dust. It truly changed my life and opened many doors,” Tesoro reflects. Following his fourth runway show at Philippine Fashion Week in 2010, Tesoro was approached by Lady Gaga’s team, sparking a collaboration that catapulted him into international recognition. In 2011, Lady Gaga’s stylist, Nicolas Formichetti, commissioned Tesoro and Filipino artist Leeroy New to create an armor dress worn by Lady Gaga on the cover of “Marry the Night.” This collaboration solidified Tesoro’s place in the global high fashion arena. When discussing the balance between art and wearability, Tesoro explains that his primary focus is on artistic value rather than practicality. For instance, the shoes worn by Lady Gaga on red carpets, while orthopedically correct, were designed to be admired rather than for ease of movement. “If you love a pair of shoes enough, you’ll find a way to wear them,” he notes with humor. Tesoro recalls another instance when Madonna’s stylist, Bea Åkerlund, invited him to create shoes and clothing for Madonna’s 2011 Super Bowl performance. However, lacking practical considerations, particularly for a dance performance, his designs could not meet the requirements. This experience taught Tesoro the importance of balancing comfort with artistic integrity. Reflecting on his influences, Tesoro speaks about the profound impact of his mother, especially during the design phase of his 2014 conceptual project, Polypodis. Much to his sorrow, his mother passed away the same year, marking a tumultuous period for Tesoro. “When certain emotions or moods intervene, there is always a transformation,” he reflects. The Polypodis shoes, inspired by cephalopods and the sundew plant, solidified his reputation as an innovator on the global stage. The forms of the tentacles, also reminiscent of Medusa’s hair, evoke the complexity of human (the wearer) emotions and the evolution of thought through personal experiences. Tesoro’s affinity with horticulture has influenced his designs in both abstract and literal ways. In 2016, he introduced Equilibria, inspired by the Venus flytrap, which blends natural forms with the human foot. The form and coloration of Equilibria clearly reflect a more literal interpretation of the plant; the wearer's foot becomes the trapped fly. This collection was exhibited alongside Polypodis at Lichtenwald Castle in Germany. SUSTAINABILITY AND CULTURAL ROOTS His latest capsule collection, *Leucistic Observation*, seamlessly blends avant-garde elements with a modest approach inspired by traditional Filipino values. Named after leucism, a genetic condition in animals characterized by reduced pigmentation, the collection reflects Tesoro's ongoing exploration of subtle yet profound themes. The incognito layering of textures in pale and neutral colors, accented with speckles of gold, silver, and pearl beadwork, reveals itself only upon close inspection. This striking contrast between an initial impression of modesty and the bold character revealed through intricate weaving and embroidery makes the collection irresistibly captivating. Throughout his career, Tesoro has consistently incorporated sustainable materials such as banana fiber, rattan, bamboo, and recycled plastics, some sourced from beaches. In the Leucistic Observation collection, he emphasizes sustainability by using native Filipino pineapple fiber as the dominant material, along with abaca fiber, sinamay, and repurposed Capiz shells. Living in Berlin, Tesoro celebrates his Filipino roots through his use of native materials for Leucistic Observation, reflecting his emotional journey and cultural pride. His designs adhere to the Filipino national costume guidelines, ensuring respect for tradition while innovating sensibly. “I was taught in school that there are certain guidelines to follow to avoid bastardizing the national costumes. I wanted to stay true to that philosophy,” Tesoro explains, referring to his handling of the traditionally woven fibers for his garments. THOUGHT-PROVOKING ART AND FASHION Tesoro’s audacious work elicits strong reactions, challenges norms, and provokes taboos, touching on themes of sensuality and critical thought. Reflecting on his collaboration with Lady Gaga, which drew criticism from conservative Christian groups and led to his work being labeled as diabolical, he asserts, “Provoking emotion, whether positive or negative, is the goal—to move people to respond.” When asked which historical figure he would design for, Tesoro enthusiastically mentions Atang de la Rama, a prominent Filipino actress and singer celebrated as the “Queen of Kundiman.” Known for her exceptional performances of traditional Filipino love songs, Atang de la Rama made significant contributions to Philippine theater and cinema during the early to mid-20th century. Tesoro expressed his excitement at interpreting the “bakya,” or traditional Filipino dress, alongside other contemporary designs for her, saying, “I would love to dress her.” In contrast, when asked which celebrity he would like to design for at the MET Gala in New York City, Tesoro promptly replied, “Cate Blanchett! I love her! If given the opportunity to dress her or create something for her, I would be more than okay (hinting at pure bliss in life).” From his journey through triumphs, challenges, evolution, faced with both adorations and scrutinies, Tesoro advises young aspiring creators with unique visions to stay informed and rooted in their core values. "Being canceled isn't permanent. Identify your creative truth and defend it," Kermit encourages, emphasizing authenticity over fear of judgment in today's cancel culture. Kermit Tesoro's bold exploration of art and fashion transcends conventions, challenging the fashion world to embrace new perspectives and possibilities. As a Filipino artist, his upbringing in Paete, Laguna, known as "the carving capital of the Philippines" and his late mother's hometown, nurtured his principles of design versatility and innovative material use. This environment, rich with childhood memories and family experiences, instilled in him a deep appreciation for Filipino aesthetic traditions and cultural heritage, particularly the "bakya" culture. His dedication to horticulture and environmental sensibilities enrich his creative vision, while his advocacy for sustainability underscores the ethical foundation of his work. Tesoro's creations epitomize the power of creativity to provoke thought and reshape boundaries, marking him as an avant-garde artist on the global stage who remains genuine and true to his values. 1/5 Images provided by: Kermit Tesoro Previous Next

Maria Rivera New York Runway Model Maria Rivera: From Manila to Manhattan, A Journey of Resilience and Grace An influencer in her own right, Maria Rivera is a fashion model in New York City whose career began in the Philippines. She was born and raised in Sampaloc, Manila, by her grandmother Lola Tule (Lola translates to grandmother). Sampaloc (which translates to Tamarind, as the area once had an abundance of tamarind trees) is a district situated in the northern part of Manila. It is known for its bustling markets with vibrant scenes, much like the vibrant, cheerful, well-dressed, and elegant Maria when she first walked into the café in downtown Manhattan for her interview. She also carries the spirit of Bulacan from her father’s side and Pampanga from her mother’s side. Bulacan is located in the northern part of Manila, a place that played a very important role in Philippine history. It is where the first republic, or Malolos Republic, was declared in 1899, following the Philippines' Declaration of Independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1898. The province of Pampanga, on the other hand, is situated in Central Luzon. It is known as the culinary capital of the Philippines and a major agricultural region producing rice. From her already vivacious life as a city girl in Manila, Maria relocated alone to New York City five years ago, signing with a New York-based modeling agency. She was immediately tested by the stringent demands of the fashion industry, from meeting strict standards for physique to navigating a culture of both success and rejection. Alone in a big city with no one to rely on, Maria found comfort when she met another Filipino model in New York. The two became good friends, planning their highly disciplined eating routines and naturally becoming each other’s support system. “Rejection became our meal,” Maria explains. Going to casting calls made her realize that there are so many beautiful women in New York, raising the question of why she was even there. Models are pushed to be someone the job requires, but not necessarily someone they want to be. Over time, Maria faced her challenges with resilience and grace, a prominent quality of a Filipina. The compliments and attention she received made her timid, yet they also provided her the feeling of validation as a rightful public figure who can positively affect people. New York City indeed is not lacking in beautiful models, but what is remarkable about Maria is that for a young woman, she is dignified. Regardless of the details of her hardships working as a fashion model and the challenges imposed on her self-esteem, she speaks of her experiences maturely rather than defeated. For Maria, beauty is subjective. She reiterated that while some people are naturally suited to be models with their specific physical qualities, she doesn’t believe women have to be a size 2 or 0. It is not realistic. She recalls the time when she was asked to try out for the Victoria's Secret Pink casting. She dedicated months to prepare herself physically to the point of being emaciated. While her thin figure made it easy to wear clothes, it did not make her feel good. Today, Maria feels more beautiful, admitting she is very happy after meeting her supportive fiancé three years ago. As a promising vlogger with a significant following under the name “Mabuhay Maria,” Maria plans to create future vlogs for aspiring models, helping them understand the realities of the modeling industry. Her goal is to become a positive influencer. When asked about her identity as a Filipina, Maria immediately responded, “I am proud,” hence her vlogger name “Mabuhay Maria,” which translates to "live life, Maria." She explains that Filipinos are naturally jolly and accommodating, even to strangers. “Filipinos are very talented but sometimes don’t know it,” she added. They adapt easily to different environments and are fighters by nature. Maria identifies herself as a fighter, quoting Alicia Keys: “If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere.” In her foreseeable future, she sees her vlogging continuing to expand. She wants to use her platform to educate the world that Filipinos are not just nurses, beauty queens, and domestic helpers. She hopes to highlight Filipino successes and move away from clichés. As a fashion model and vlogger, Maria advises young people struggling with self-esteem to “listen and communicate with your family and relatives because your blood is your strongest ally.” She notes that many young people today turn to social media for information, often growing up too fast and being misled. Enjoying youth, living in the moment, and asking for help are also signs of strong character. Maria may not have had the chance to be raised closely by her parents, but being raised by Lola Tule certainly made her an outstanding individual. From a matriarchal upbringing, Maria was already a very grounded person before moving to New York City. When asked if she considers herself a New Yorker, she replied, “I am not a New Yorker, but I do add spice to New York.” Maria carries her success with humility and faces her difficulties with tenacity—a true Filipina indeed. Photo credit: Provided by Maria Rivera Previous Next

Dayat Sutisno Indonesia Dayat Sutisno.jpg Dayat Sutisno.jpg 1/1 Photo credit: Dayat Sutisno His photography captures profound stories in a single frame, making words almost unnecessary. Dayat Sutisno is an Indonesian photographer known for capturing compelling images that often reflect the rich cultural and natural landscapes of Indonesia. His work typically emphasizes the vibrant life, traditions, and scenic beauty of the country, bringing to light aspects of Indonesian society and environment that might otherwise go unnoticed. Sutisno's photography is noted for its vivid use of color and composition, which creates a powerful visual narrative. Previous Next

Rituals on the Ancestral Land BATO, Boracay Ati Tribal Organization | Boracay, Philippines Fluid Gold Journal extends our deep gratitude to the Boracay Ati Tribal Organization (BATO) for granting us permission to share and publish two of their rituals. The following rituals have been translated from the ATI Community local dialect. Our culture in the past was rich in numerous rituals. While we still teach our children about the various types of rituals, the process of performing them is no longer passed down. Due to the influence of Catholicsm and the establishment of the church, it is now rare to find medicine people, healers, or shamans, and many rituals are no longer practiced. A shaman is considered more powerful than a healer. Many of the shamans from earlier times have passed away, and only one healer, Tay Johnny, remains. As a result, we now seek the help of a shaman from a different province and also go to the hospital when we are sick. Despite this, we still believe in the value of our rituals, as they have the power to save lives and cure illnesses that Western medicine cannot. Palubad This ritual is conducted to determine if supernatural entities reside on the land. A hole is dug to plant a coconut seed. After three days, the hole is re-excavated to inspect the seed. If the coconut shakes, it indicates a negative presence on the land. If it remains still, the land is deemed safe for use and settlement. Sanag This ritual is for a newly constructed house. The father of the house or head of the household will conduct the ritual where the house will be built using stone or money. Plant the coins along the perimeter of the house in order to buy the land from supernatural entities. Previous Next

Fluid Gold Journal abides by guidelines so our collaborators understand how we use the published materials. FLUID GOLD JOURNAL PRIVACY POLICY 1. Introduction Welcome to Fluid Fold Journal, a publication of Mula Project, fiscally sponsored by the New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA). We are committed to protecting your privacy and ensuring that your personal information is handled in a safe and responsible manner. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard your information when you visit our website and use our services. 2. 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Dayat Sutisno Indonesia Dayat Sutisno.jpg Dayat Sutisno.jpg 1/1 Photo credit: Dayat Sutisno His photography captures profound stories in a single frame, making words almost unnecessary. Dayat Sutisno is an Indonesian photographer known for capturing compelling images that often reflect the rich cultural and natural landscapes of Indonesia. His work typically emphasizes the vibrant life, traditions, and scenic beauty of the country, bringing to light aspects of Indonesian society and environment that might otherwise go unnoticed. Sutisno's photography is noted for its vivid use of color and composition, which creates a powerful visual narrative. Previous Next

Erica Paredes Filipina-Parisian Chef Reyna's Culinary Journey "I built the community first; then the space followed." This is the guiding principle Erica Paredes followed to secure her success with her Parisian restaurant, Reyna. From her bright eyes, her friendly and charismatic smile, to her artistic floral arm tattoo, one has the impression that she is an expressive, creative, and confident woman. Erica Paredes is a celebrated culinary steward and the owner of Reyna in Paris. A Filipina, she began her career in publications, particularly in the fashion and beauty arenas. Her global journey spans the Philippines, Australia, Great Britain—where she studied in London—and now Paris, where she honed her culinary skills at Le Cordon Bleu. Paris was a serendipitous stop that soon felt like home, aligning perfectly with her vibrant personality. The journey to the success of Reyna, and thus her success, was "organic yet purposeful," as Erica described it. She worked at various restaurants, including an internship at a Michelin-rated establishment. For Erica, climbing the ladder while working for someone else was never her goal. She knew she wanted her own space to pursue her second career. She sought out experiences in challenging kitchens to observe operations and learn how to manage her own place. Erica initiated a supper club, her brilliant idea involving hosting a three-course meal and a glass of wine for ten random guests at her apartment. Utilizing social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, she announced the date of the supper and the theme for the evening. She never revealed the menu in advance, adding an element of surprise to the dining experience; however, she always asked guests for any dietary restrictions. From her kitchen, equipped with a professional table and open to the dining room with a single table, Erica delivered what would become the essence of her restaurant, Reyna. Her aim was to provide her guests with an exceptional experience in a communal setup, reminiscent of the Filipino tradition of salo-salo, or togetherness. Opportunities for pop-up kitchens soon came her way. She was offered the chance to take over a restaurant kitchen for varying periods, akin to a residency. These stints ranged from one week to two weeks, with the longest being four months. During the Covid pandemic, when the food industry was heavily impacted and restaurants were closing, it was a time of difficulty and self-questioning. However, this did not deter Erica. According to her, "In times of despair and hardship, it's time to find solutions and answers to get to the next step." During the pandemic, when many restaurants remained closed, Erica resumed cooking in her kitchen for takeout. Through her connections, she found a restaurant kitchen where she could produce her food using professional equipment and hired two people with scooters to handle deliveries. Erica worked throughout the rest of the pandemic. When restaurants began reopening, she resumed her pop-up kitchens until she eventually opened Reyna two years ago. Erica explains that Reyna is an homage to her late maternal grandmother and to the women who nurtured her growing up in the Philippines. It became evident during this interview how close Erica is to her family when she described her relationships with the women in her family. "I love that I come from a lineage with a grandmother who is very caring and another grandmother who is a badass." When asked how her Filipino upbringing influences her work, Erica explained that it shapes her thinking and the way she treats people. This explains the respect she receives from her Reyna team and the patrons who continuously support the restaurant. "You can be the best in any field, but if nobody likes to work with you, you will not get far." It is important for her to treat people with respect and maintain her passion for what she does. Erica describes her kitchen as democratic, where her sous chefs can make suggestions, test them out, and proceed with them if they meet Reyna’s culinary standards. Running a restaurant in Paris poses certain difficulties due to cultural differences. Compared to Manila, where staffing is more accessible, labor in Paris is very expensive, resulting in Erica taking on more responsibilities than just cooking. For instance, if there is a plumbing problem, she has to fix it herself. Besides being creative, personable, headstrong, and hardworking, one of Erica’s biggest strengths is her ability to recognize people who can help her bring her goals and ideas to fruition. As a woman, Erica has proven herself in the culinary arena through hard work. However, she is not one to settle after a single positive publication about Reyna. “Staying consistent and relevant in Paris is very difficult because there is always a new place opening up,” Erica explains. Reyna is celebrating its two-year anniversary, a testament to her work's relevance in Paris. When asked for advice to our readers, Erica states, “Success is moving forward, reaching small goals to get to the big goals.” Investing in oneself is significant, but having the discipline to work hard is mandatory. It is not enough to recognize one’s passion because “there is no red carpet that will be rolled out for you.” She describes her journey to success as encountering swamps and quicksand and requiring her to climb mountains. Similar to what we see on social media, people only post the best parts of their lives, even though their struggles are real. Hardship, however, allows one to use parts of the brain that would otherwise remain dormant. “Don’t be afraid of hardship, to be uncomfortable, and to exercise creativity,” she adds. Surrounding oneself with key individuals is essential to achieve one’s goals and to support one’s mental health. “I have endless ideas I want to execute. If it fails, it fails. At least you are trying to do it. Find your strengths and weaknesses, and when you find your weaknesses, find people to fill those gaps.” Photo credits: Portrait and restaurant by Paolo Coumans | Food by Erica Paredes Previous Next

< Back Nguyễn Tiến Truyển The Tapestry of Dreams: Nguyễn Tiến Truyển weaves thread into divine creations Nguyễn Tiến Truyển’s journey in fashion is akin to crafting an extraordinary dress, where every ambition is a stitch that transforms simple fabric into a masterpiece. His story reflects not only his personal dreams, but also the vision of his mother, creating a rich tapestry of shared aspirations. FROM HO CHI MINH CITY TO GLOBAL RECOGNITION Nguyễn Tiến Truyển, the celebrated Vietnamese fashion designer behind the brand 'Nguyen Tien Truyen,' gained international acclaim after winning *Project Runway Vietnam* in 2015. Born in the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh City, his designs capture the city's dynamism and cultural blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Khmer, French, and American influences. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s largest metropolis, brims with energy and an eclectic mix of traditions, embodied in its welcoming people and their lively way of life. A CHILDHOOD STEEPED IN FASHION Nguyễn’s fashion journey began well before his television success. His foundation was laid in childhood, inspired by his mother, a seamstress with her own dreams of sewing. Despite challenges, she sparked a profound passion in him. Nguyễn reflects: "Having inherited the enthusiasm from when I was still in my mother's womb, I showed my sewing abilities at a very early age. As I grew up, that passion grew stronger and stronger, and this is when I thought that it was my calling to continue writing the dream on behalf of my mother." His formal education at Hoa Sen University in Ho Chi Minh City, affiliated with the French Modern Art Fashion Academy, honed his skills for the global stage. AVANT-GARDE VISIONARY Nguyễn’s style, under the brand 'Nguyen Tien Truyen,' is a captivating blend of contemporary and traditional elements. He describes his approach: "My design style is rooted in the avant-garde, a realm where imagination knows no limits and innovation thrives. My designs are a dance between the past and the future, where traditional Vietnamese elements seamlessly blend with contemporary innovation, creating timeless yet modern pieces." His creations often channel divine inspiration, with garments fit for goddesses. For instance, 'The Black Athena,' an evening gown for CEO Duong Thu Huang at Cannes 2023, draws on the strength and elegance of the Greek goddess Athena, merging the sacred with the sublime. INSPIRATIONS AND ASPIRATIONS Nguyễn’s influences are as bold as his designs. He reveals: "Alexander McQueen has always been my greatest source of inspiration. His fearless creativity and groundbreaking designs have fueled my fashion dreams since I was young. I would love to design for Lady Gaga; she embodies the spirit of avant-garde fashion and isn't afraid to push boundaries, much like myself." This inspiration is evident in the evening gown worn by beauty queen Andrea Aguilera (Miss Supranational 2023) at the Miss Supranational pageant 2024 in Poland. The gown, inspired by burning fire, transforms the wearer into a mesmerizing flame, as if channeling the power of a goddess. SUSTAINABLE FASHION PIONEER Nguyễn is also a leader in sustainable fashion. In 2022 at the Vietnam International Fashion Week, Nguyễn along with other designers showcased upcycled fabrics made from coffee fiber, oyster shells, and recycled plastic bottles, demonstrating his commitment to eco-friendly practices and environmental responsibility. CULTURAL STEWARDSHIP THROUGH VIETNAMESE SILK Nguyễn’s use of Vietnamese silk honors his country’s cultural heritage. This luxurious fabric, once reserved for royalty, symbolizes tradition and craftsmanship. His intricate designs merge this silk heritage with avant-garde fashion, creating pieces that are both culturally significant and modern. OVERCOMING CHALLENGES Establishing 'Nguyen Tien Truyen' came with challenges. Nguyễn reflects on his biggest hurdle: "Communicating a deeply personal and unique vision in an industry that was not yet ready to embrace such distinctiveness. It was like introducing a new dialect in a familiar language." Though avant-garde fashion is gaining traction among younger, urban Vietnamese, more conservative regions still emphasize modesty. Nguyễn continues to broaden his international presence, steadily achieving his goal. ADVICE FOR ASPIRING DESIGNERS Nguyễn Tiến Truyển offers this wisdom to aspiring designers: "Be true to yourself and your vision. Understand your unique style and let it shine through your work." His journey from Ho Chi Minh City to the global fashion stage is a testament to the transformative power of dreams and the significance of cultural heritage. Nguyễn’s avant-garde designs, blending Vietnamese tradition with modern innovation, continually reshape the fashion landscape. By channeling divine inspiration into his creations and honoring his mother’s dreams, Nguyễn crafts garments worthy of goddesses, making each piece a profound statement of identity and purpose. In a world driven by fleeting trends, Nguyễn Tiến Truyển and his brand ''Nguyen Tien Truyen' stand as beacons of authenticity and vision. His dedication to sustainability and cultural preservation not only elevates his work beyond art but also ensures he will continue to stun the global community with his undeniable divine creations. As his influence grows, Nguyễn inspires others to turn their dreams into reality, showing that with passion and diligence, one can craft a legacy that is both timeless and profoundly impactful. 1/4 Images provided by: Nguyễn Tiền Truyền Previous Next

Dayat Sutisno Indonesia Dayat Sutisno.jpg Dayat Sutisno.jpg 1/1 Photo credit: Dayat Sutisno His photography captures profound stories in a single frame, making words almost unnecessary. Dayat Sutisno is an Indonesian photographer known for capturing compelling images that often reflect the rich cultural and natural landscapes of Indonesia. His work typically emphasizes the vibrant life, traditions, and scenic beauty of the country, bringing to light aspects of Indonesian society and environment that might otherwise go unnoticed. Sutisno's photography is noted for its vivid use of color and composition, which creates a powerful visual narrative. Previous Next

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Mario Mercado 1938-2021 An Homage To A Filipino Artist Mario Mercado Lizard on a shoe Mario Mercado Abstract Mario Mercado Portrait Mario Mercado Lizard on a shoe 1/6 Images provided by: Joni Mercado Born in Baritan, Malabon City, Philippines, during the tumultuous years of World War II, Mario Mercado’s early life was marked by resilience and resourcefulness. Despite hardships, his curiosity and love for beauty flourished. Mario developed a deep appreciation for culture, which led him to explore photography, taxidermy, and indigenous art. His journey as an artist began with studies at the Pratt Graphic Art Center in New York City, where he overcame significant challenges, including financial struggles, to pursue his passion. Through his lens and lithographs, Mario captured the essence of life—blending his Filipino heritage with his experiences abroad. A well-known fine artist in the Philippines, Mario immersed himself in the cultural tapestry of his homeland. He lived for two years with the Mangyan people (Mangyan is a collective term for indigenous groups in Mindoro Philippines), studying their folklore and traditions, which became the subject of a paper he published while serving as Managing Editor of a Philippine newspaper. His work was not limited to the visual arts; Mario undertook archeological research, amassing an impressive collection of Philippine artifacts that reflected the country’s diverse history. Mario was also the figure behind bringing down the Sari Manok, a legendary bird from Philippine mythology of the Maranao people in Mindanao. The word Sari means assorted colors while the word Manok means rooster. The Sari Manok is a symbol of cultural pride, from the mountains, further cementing his dedication to preserving Filipino heritage. His creative output and scholarly pursuits were united by his inquisitive spirit, documenting stories of survival, identity, and cultural richness. A true visionary, he lived as an artist in every sense, preserving beauty and history through his art and research. Previous Next