About Luma Kuna

 

Luma Kuna is an Art and Design Studio based in Canberra, Australia, founded in 2023 by Vanessa Sotieles, a Peruvian-Australian resident artist. The studio focuses on creating timeless, limited-edition, handcrafted pieces with a mindful and artisanal approach. Through collaboration with skilled Peruvian artisans, we bring to life contemporary designs that honor and preserve ancestral Peruvian techniques, ensuring that these traditions continue to thrive.

  • Sustainability at Our Core

    We’re committed to sustainability in every step, from sourcing eco-friendly materials to practicing fair trade principles that support the livelihoods of our artisans. Each piece reflects a blend of art, culture, and ethics.

  • Art That Connects

    We believe art connects people across distances and generations. Our pieces merge traditional craftsmanship with modern design, offering a chance to own a piece of history while supporting a future of sustainable creativity.

  • Building a Global Community

    Our vision goes beyond creating art. We’re building a community that values artisanal craftsmanship and supports meaningful connections between creators, customers, and heritage.
Founder and Creative Director

Meet Creative Director Vanessa Sotieles

Artist, designer, and working mom, Vanessa Sotieles (Peruvian-Australian resident), founded Luma Kuna as an ethical brand focused on upholding Peru’s ancestral craftsmanship. Vanessa created Luma Kuna to honor and preserve these fading traditions by merging ancient techniques with contemporary design. She believes that by fostering sustainability and ethical production, we can not only protect these invaluable techniques but also connect people across cultures and time.

For Vanessa, Luma Kuna is deeply personal—it’s a blend of her daughter’s name, Uma, and the Quechua word “Kuna,” meaning “to give.” This name represents more than just a brand; it reflects a journey of creating meaningful, handcrafted art that connects people across cultures and honors the act of giving. Just as she hopes to pass on a legacy of creativity and respect for heritage to her daughter, she shares that spirit through each piece Luma Kuna offers.

In a fast-paced world, Vanessa advocates for slowing down to appreciate the time, skill, and stories behind each handcrafted piece, believing that preserving heritage is essential to shaping a more mindful, creative, and connected future.

Explore our Limited Edition Pieces