Interview with Douangmany Heuangkhamsene at Tuesday 25th of September 2018
FS: What is the main principle, idea and inspiration behind your design?
DH: MANGMEE in Lao language means prosperity and wealth. Yao ethnic group are notable for their dazzling silver embellishment, sumptuously adorned during their New Year festival. Yao people believe that the decoration of silver adornment during New Year is a result of their diligence and hard work, doing agricultural activities to generate income for their families. This means that the more adornment you see on a woman, the more hard-working and diligent she is. Similarly, the Yao are also well-known for their exquisite embroidery, and the intricate pattern a woman embroiders is a reflection of her perseverance and attention to details. The jewellery and embroidery worn by a woman during the New Year represent true characteristics of Yao women – diligence and perseverance. Irresistibly, when a man sees a woman in Yao ethnic attires on New Year, he desires to start a family with her. In addition to the jewellery and embroidery that reflect prosperity, there is also a meaning behind the “Silver Flower” – the Yao flowery pattern on this purse. Yao people believe that wearing silver flower on their bodies will bring them good fortune.
The Yao prosperity story inspired the creation and the design of this purse as Tookta wishes to tell the story of Yao aspiring culture through this masterpiece. She believes that the person who acquires this purse will sense the prosperity and be proud of ‘her work’ – a result of her diligence and perseverance, created with her own two hands.
FS: Thank you for providing us with this opportunity to interview you.
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