My work shines a light on Vietnam. – Alena Kalana 

What is it about Vietnam’s national cultural icon, the conical hat, and the rice fields that influenced the creation of “Ruộng lúa”?

Inspired by the engineered contoured lines of Vietnamese rice fields, designed to prevent water erosion, as well as the cultural symbol of the conical hat, Alena Kalana presents the sumptuous Ruộng lúa (Vietnamese for rice field). The conical hat, known locally as “nón lá,” is not just a practical accessory that protects farmers from the sun and rain; it embodies the rich cultural heritage and agricultural lifestyle of Vietnam. This iconic headwear, gracefully crafted from leaves and bamboo, reflects the simplicity and elegance of rural life while serving as a poignant reminder of the connection between nature and craftsmanship.

Ruộng lúa seeks to capture this cultural symbolism by infusing sophisticated fashion with elements that celebrate Vietnam’s agrarian roots and the timeless beauty of its landscapes. In each piece, the essence of the conical hat resonates, telling a story of resilience and artistry that is uniquely Vietnamese, inviting wearers to embrace the Vietnamese culture while making a bold fashion statement.

Originally hailing from Guam, the greater Los Angeles-based artist and designer utilizes form, shape, and linear aesthetics to develop this compelling body of work. For example, the hand-quilted pieces emulate the parallel gradation of the sloped hills, reflecting the natural beauty and unique topography of their origins. The influence of the conical hat is visually captivating throughout the collection with its signature conical-shaped silhouettes and godets inserts, further emphasizing Kalana’s artistic ability to harness various textures and patterns that evoke a sense of movement and fluidity within the pieces.

Through a zero-waste methodology that incorporates deadstock materials, Kalana has fashioned a timeless capsule intended for longevity, destined to be passed down and recycled in the future, thereby epitomizing the principles of a circular fashion system that defines the future of the industry. 

Contemporary Vietnam is witnessing an uptick in tourism and economic growth. Kalana’s selection of materials, including linen—chosen for its suitability to the heat and humidity experienced by rice farmers—and shiny sparkly sequins and rhinestone accents, employed to serve as a mirror into the Vietnamese people, demonstrates a profound cultural awareness. She says, “shining a light on Vietnam … is to look closer … Vietnam was not so shiny, not seen on the radar until recently.”

Her work has been seen on the runway at Los Angeles Fashion Week, featured on the cover of Fine magazine, exhibited in galleries in Southern California, and most recently exhibited in CLOTH, Construct, CULTURE: fashion builds a story, Portland, Oregon, USA.  

As an advocate for an environmental ecosystem and a proponent of a circular economy, Kalana launched a children’s line, “Luh♥︎duckie,” which features reimagined, repurposed, and upcycled limited pieces. This initiative aligns seamlessly with her ethos of environmental protection. 

Selected work from Alena Kalana’s Ruộng lúa collection are exhibited at Sheehan Gallery’s FACT: fashion + art construct tomorrow, along with designers, Palani Bearghost, Fabiola Soavelo, and painter Erik ReeL.

Exhibition Details

• FACT: fashion + art construct tomorrow 
• Featuring Erik ReeL painting, and three ecologically-minded designers, Palani Bearghost, Alena Kalana, Fabiola Soavelo, curated by Rhonda P. Hill
• Presented by Sheehan Gallery at Whitman College, Kynde Kiefel, Director
• On View 28 January – 4 April 2025 
• 21 February 5:30 – 6:30, Creative Panel Event, Olin Hall Auditorium 
• 21 February 6:30, Artists Reception, Sheehan Gallery 
• Sheehan Gallery at Whitman College 
• 345 Boyer Avenue, Olin Hall 
• Walla Walla, WA  99362   

Photography by James Gagos