Moda Interni hosted The Luxe Collective: Celebrating Art, Design, and Community at its Quezon City showroom, drawing together design enthusiasts, art lovers, and lifestyle advocates. This landmark event showcased the harmony between Filipino artistry and the sophistication of global luxury, spotlighting local talent alongside iconic Italian furniture brands.
Featuring visual artist Rachel Ngan Duenas, fashion designer Yumi Christina, and chocolatier Christian Valdes, the event explored their creative journeys and how their work elevates contemporary living. Paired with curated pieces from Moda Interni’s collection, their crafts demonstrated the transformative power of art, culture, and design in creating personal sanctuaries.
This marks the debut of The Luxe Collective series, reinforcing Moda Interni’s mission to merge Filipino ingenuity with global luxury design for everyday living. “Luxury transcends aesthetics—it’s about crafting spaces that reflect our stories,” said Goldwin Sison, President and CEO of Moda Interni. “These exceptional Filipino artists embody the intersection of creativity, culture, and personal narrative. By pairing their work with esteemed brands like Turri, Opera Contemporary, and Pedini, we aim to inspire Filipinos to see their homes as extensions of their identity—true sanctuaries of personal expression,” he added.
Rachel Ngan Duenas: Art as the Soul of Space
Rachel Ngan Duenas, a pioneering artist from a family of entrepreneurs and a recent exhibitor at the Carousel de Louvre in Paris, captivated attendees with her vibrant work Come Into Life, now displayed at Moda Interni’s showroom. Rooted in “tropical impressionism,” her art draws inspiration from the lush Philippine landscape.
Turri’s versatile and timeless designs resonated with Rachel’s philosophy of “Creating Space for Art,” which emphasizes authenticity as the cornerstone of personal spaces. “When your surroundings reflect your true self, they naturally become homes for art,” she noted. Her Louvre-featured piece, a celebration of resilience, will remain on display at Moda Interni, with 50% of proceeds supporting the Philippine Cancer Society.
Yumi Christina: Reinventing Old-World Elegance
Japanese-Filipino designer Yumi Christina, founder of EDYA1929, brought the essence of Japonism to the Moda Interni showroom. This 19th-century art movement—known for its simplicity, asymmetry, and nature-inspired motifs—shaped Yumi’s East-meets-West aesthetic.
Her journey began in 2019 when a vintage kimono sparked a creative rebirth. Today, her designs transform these cultural treasures into modern fashion, collaborating with local artisans to preserve heritage while embracing innovation.
Paired with Opera Contemporary’s timeless craftsmanship, Yumi’s work exemplified the synergy between tradition and modern luxury. “Every kimono fabric carries stories—symbols of virtues, seasons, and craftsmanship. My work gives these tales a new life, balancing heritage with contemporary relevance,” she shared.
Christian Valdes: Bridging Local Flavors and Global Palates
Christian Valdes, founder of CMV Txokolat, showcased his luxurious confections made with Filipino ingredients, epitomizing the concept of “glocal cuisine.” Partnering with Pedini’s innovative kitchen designs, Christian highlighted how thoughtful design elevates culinary artistry.
“Chocolate is more than an ingredient; it’s a narrative of history and culture,” he explained. Christian’s creations draw from the Philippines’ rich cacao heritage, transforming local flavors into globally acclaimed treats. For him, the artistry in crafting chocolate mirrors Pedini’s approach to kitchen design—where every detail inspires creativity and functionality.
“Each truffle or bar tells a story of Filipino heritage. By supporting local producers, we ensure the sustainability and global recognition of our culinary traditions,” he emphasized. A well-designed kitchen, he added, is essential in fostering creativity and passion for the craft.
For appointments or inquiries, visit the Moda Interni showroom or contact [email protected].
