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Wife, mother, artist, designer, a true visionary, Bea Valdes is our first interview for our weekly column called, 'Her World'
She was one of my first ever interviewees when I started in the publishing industry. I have admired this woman for her creativity, style, and passion. Seeing her eponymous line evolve from accessories, bags, clothing, and art installations is mind-blowing. I am proud of her and her accomplishments. Today, we start a new series of getting to know the many fascinating individuals in our country. This is Bea Valdes and this is Her World.
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How would you describe yourself?
Creative.
What are you currently watching, listening to, or reading?
My 9-year-old daughter’s playlist dominates the airwaves in our living room; I am currently reading Dune Messiah by Frank Herbert and Booming Bamboo by Pablo van der Lugt, and I am currently watching – Euphoria Season 2.
Favourite shopping haunts in the city?
Lanai, for flowers.
Favourite restaurants, bars, etc.
Toyo Eatery.
Why do you do what you do? What are you currently working on?
I do what I do because to be able to create every day is such a gift. It is also the way my sister and our team continue the conversation on craft and heritage. We are currently working on commissioned artworks and bespoke fashion pieces.
Where do you go to imbibe some culture or get some inspiration?
I go into nature. There is something about being immersed in a thing larger, older and wiser than yourself that lends to fresh perspectives.
What can’t you live without?
Creative work and my family.
Your favourite place in the country?
Home.
Your favourite places to go to?
London and Hong Kong.
What’s on your bucket list of places you would like to visit?
Patagonia.
Where do you go to relax?
On an early morning hike.
How would you describe your style?
What once was sharp now has rounded edges.
Your style icons.
Iris Arpfel, Lenny Kravitz.
What’s in your fridge?
Cheese, different kinds of flour, chocolate and fruits.
What’s your hidden talent?
I can binge-bake cookies.
"my family"
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A recent discovery is …?
Bamboo—an extraordinary material and hopefully, tomorrow’s timber.
The five indispensable gadgets.
Only two, phone and laptop.
Do you collect anything?
Art, ideas and memories.
What are your favourite websites, podcasts, Youtube, social media personalities?
I always start off the day by visiting three websites: CNN Philippines, CNN International and Vogue.com.
What have you learned from the pandemic? How have you changed in terms of priorities, mindset, etc.?
The pandemic has exposed how everyone is deeply connected.
Do you regret anything?
No.
What’s your current state of mind?
Hopeful.
What’s a legacy you would like to leave?
A deep, accessible appreciation of craft and vibrant design conversation between heritage and the present.
Above "checking my work in progress"
"checking my work in progress"
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Who would you like to have over for dinner? (living or deceased).
My family.
Since this column started back in 1998, where are you now in your life, and what more would you like to achieve?
That list is long and varied.
What’s the most effective teaching you have learned so far from life?
The most effective teaching I have learned is to stay curious. I think the words of Marvin Minsky are spot on when he said, “You don’t understand anything until you learn it more than one way.”
To know more about her work, visit beavaldes.com or follow her on Instagram: @@beavaldesdesign.
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Anton San Diego, editor-in-chief of Tatler Philippines for 24 years and founding member of Manila House, blends his background in fashion and hospitality to shape the country’s leading voice on luxury and culture.
IG and Threads: @antonsd
Facebook: Anton San Diego
