Shentonista Interviews – Fashion Designer & Gallery Owner: Malini Murjani

You are a huge art aficionado. What about art do you love?

I love the way people are able to connect with it and how a piece of art can have such a strong effect on peoples’ emotions. It is often in an instant when a buyer falls in love with a piece, which to me, is a great moment to be able to witness.

You are based in New York, why did you decide to start an art gallery in Singapore?

We have a growing number of Asian-based collectors so it made a lot of sense to secure our footing here, and to make the pieces more accessible for this market. I have been coming to Singapore for years; I have family here and have always loved the city, so it was a great opportunity for me to spend more time here.

Tell us more about Domingo Zapata’s works that are currently featured in your gallery. What drew you to his works?

Domingo is truly a pleasure to work with. He is so full of life and passion and has a wonderful sense of humour which you can immediately pick up on when looking at his work. I first fell in love with the ‘Rhino’ series, which I’ve since commissioned in gold and the art work is now hanging above my dining table in Tribeca (New York).

Tell us more about your own label and your creations – who do you create for and what inspires you when you’re designing?

I design timeless, luxury handbags. When I shop, I shop for items which will simplify my lifestyle, so when I travel for example, I carry fewer pieces which are beautiful but which work with one another. I rarely design using prints. Instead, I choose to use other accessories such as jewellery or shoes to reflect how I feel.

Which part of a women’s outfit is most important and why?

Her attitude. She could be wearing a garbage bag but if it was worn with confidence, it would still look great. However, if I had to choose one real item, it would definitely be shoes!

What other projects are you currently busy with?

A couple of projects in the Middle East which will be announced shortly.

What you are currently listening to? 

My 3-year-old daughter is currently obsessed with Nicki Minaj.

Who are some of your current favourite artists and fashion designers? 

The artist, Tracey Emin – I loved the MOCA exhibit at the Miami Art Basel. Fashion wise, Mr. Alber Elbaz and Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen.

If you could collaborate with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?