Joanna Lhuillier captures tenderness and strength in ‘Living Color’
Her art transforms unconventional materials — fish scales, exotic skins, and glass beads — into profound, textured masterpieces.
Born in faraway London, Joanna Lhuillier’s creative journey began many moons ago, across several oceans and continents — all within the ritzy world of fashion.
As the romantic visionary behind her own brand, she designed exquisite bags and bewitching fashion accessories made from natural materials, which graced the curated escaparates of lifestyle resorts, highly-anticipated world fairs, and international expos of importance.
But Lhuillier’s story didn’t stop there. Constantly evolving as an artist of worth, she earnestly drew from a lifetime of rich influences. Growing up in a family of designers, her artistry was nurtured by both her parents’ creative spirits. With a background in Interior Design and work experiences in America, Singapore and Hong Kong, she keenly honed her ability to nimbly blend form and function with aesthetic beauty.
Today, this harmonious evolution culminates in her latest collection entitled Living Color — a breathtaking exploration of beadwork and sculptures.
Woman of the hour: Joanna Lhuillier.
PHOTOGRAPHS BY EDU JARQUE FOR THE DAILY TRIBUNE
Family: Michael Lhuillier, Joanna Lhuillier, MJ Lhuillier and Matthew Lhuillier.
Friends: Barbara Aboitiz, Che Uy, Dennis Uy, Joanna Lhuillier, Miguel Aboitiz and Jaime Ponce de Leon.
Handsomely influenced by family, friends, travels, and the world around her, Lhuillier finds beauty in people and places, and fleeting, yet memorable moments. Her art transforms unconventional materials — fish scales, exotic skins and glass beads — into profound, textured masterpieces.
Here are some standouts from the recent showcase at the Leon Gallery’s Maison and Joaillerie:
Crafted from 46,950 glass beads, exotic skins, and an abalone shell frame, Eternal Bloom is a radiant homage to learning and growth. Spanning 840 hours of labor, the artwork captures a hibiscus in full bloom, its vibrant petals standing out against a soft, monochrome background. The flower becomes a metaphor for the beauty of discovery — each petal unfolding as layers of knowledge come to light.
In Checkmate Love, a textured heart takes center stage within a stark, checkered border. Using 22,950 glass beads, fish skins, and shell frames, Lhuillier explores the duality of love as both a risk and a surrender. The artwork, completed in 348 hours, reflects the vulnerability and strength inherent in human relations. The interplay of organic and geometric elements suggests that love, though complex, remains deeply rooted in sincerity.
