CATHRINE WHITE: How do you, as an artist, find the peace and clarity that allows you to continue to create in this chaotic world?
MoAnA Luu: For me, clarity comes from grounding myself in my roots and staying connected to my purpose. It’s easy to get lost in the noise, but I remind myself daily of why I do this—the love for my heritage, my family, and the desire to share that beauty with the world. At the beginning of COVID, I moved to Sag Harbor. The time I spent there, especially near the ocean, allowed me to disconnect and reset. But most importantly, the community and friends I made there played a big role in inspiring me to continue creating.
CW: Your jewelry beautifully blends Creole heritage with contemporary design. How does your French West Indies background influence your creative process, and the pieces you create?
ML: My background is everything. Growing up in Martinique, I was immersed in a world of vibrant colors and textures, and a rich cultural history. Creole culture is a blend of African, European, Indian and Indigenous influences, and that fusion is central to my creative process. Every piece I create is a reflection of this cultural melting pot, from the intricacy of woven rattan, the symbolism of gold and the craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations. My work is a tribute to all the artisans and storytellers who came before me.
CW: Can you share a specific piece from your collection that holds significant personal or cultural meaning to you?
ML: One that stands out is the Doudou maxi ring. It’s not just a beautiful design; it carries a deep emotional connection. “Doudou” is Creole for “sweetheart,” and the piece symbolizes love, tenderness and a free-spirited sense of self. I wanted to create something that transcended gender, and could be worn by anyone. It’s a nod to the affection and warmth that is central to Caribbean culture, but it’s also a personal homage to my memories growing up in Martinique, watching the architectural lines of fish traps made of rattan on the beach. That was my first inspiration, where love and community were at the heart of everything.
CW: What advice would you give to aspiring designers, particularly women from diverse backgrounds, who wish to make their mark in the world of jewelry design?
ML: Be authentic, be bold and trust your instincts. As women, especially those from diverse backgrounds, we often feel the pressure to conform to certain standards. But it’s our uniqueness that gives us strength. Don’t be afraid to bring your culture, your experiences and your voice into your work. Also, surround yourself with people who believe in you and can uplift you. Mentorship is invaluable.
CW: For over 10 years, you have been a communication strategist and philanthropist, involved in improving health care for developing countries for the global nonprofit The Heart Fund. How has that shaped your view as an entrepreneur?
ML: When I met my husband, he had been a humanitarian for many years, and I wanted to support him as a partner in life using my expertise. Working with The Heart Fund and him has taught me the importance of purpose beyond profit. As an entrepreneur, it’s easy to get caught up in the business side of things, but my work with the NGO reminds me that we can use our platforms to create lasting, positive change. It’s about giving back and making a difference, not just in your immediate circle but in the global community. That’s something I carry with me in everything I do.
CW: I believe that without losses, we can’t be fully developed balanced human beings. What are your thoughts on loss, and how has it contributed to your life?
ML: Loss is one of life’s greatest teachers. It’s painful, but it brings clarity, and it forces you to grow in ways you never imagined. I’ve experienced loss personally and professionally and each time, I’ve found a new strength within myself. It teaches you resilience and makes you appreciate what you have while pushing you to keep moving forward with more intention and gratitude.
CW: What lessons about resilience and empowerment have you learned from the women in your life on this path so far?
ML: I’ve been incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by strong women throughout my life—my mother, grandmothers and mentors. From them, I’ve learned that resilience doesn’t mean you don’t fall; it means you get up, again and again. They’ve taught me that empowerment comes from within, from knowing who you are and standing firm in that truth, even when the world tries to shake you.
CW: How do you stay on task, focused and balanced?
ML: It’s definitely a challenge! I’m driven by passion in everything I do, but I’ve learned the power of routine and mindfulness. I set clear goals and break them into smaller tasks, which helps me stay focused. Balance, for me, is about knowing when to push and when to pull back. It’s a dance, but it’s one that gets easier the more you practice it. manluu.com