UltraLuxe Festival is an exceptional event that celebrates niche luxury, craftsmanship and purpose-driven luxury in an immersive, inclusive setting. It showcases the finest independent designers, artisans, and luxury brands while fostering connections and collaborations among those who appreciate the artistry and meaning behind luxury items.
Angela Loh’s journey in the jewelry industry began at homegrown Lee Hwa Jewellery, following which, she was appointed as Jewel Fest’s festival director from 2013 to 2016. In this role, she played a pivotal role in developing the creative concept and transforming Jewel Fest into a world-class event, by bringing in taste makers, connoisseurs and appreciators of the finer things in life. By curating and bringing in sophisticated pieces, Angela is driven by her fascination of the current global resale market, particularly for higher value purchases, as she aims to elevate the experience of shopping, through a focus on provenance and deepen the understanding of her clientele through education.
Popspoken: UltraLuxe Festival aims to promote community, culture, and sustainability. How do you envision luxury playing a role in fostering these values, and what impact do you hope the festival will have in this regard?
Angela: A new era of luxury is emerging, one deeply rooted in purpose and a consciousness to give back and pay forward. This shift represents a return to a more meaningful and holistic approach to living the good life, reminiscent of the patronage of independent artists and creators in the 1960s New York scene.
Throughout history, artists have depended on the support of wealthy patrons to nurture their creative talents and bring their visions to life. This practice has ancient roots, dating back to Greek and Roman times, where affluent individuals would commission artworks and architectural marvels. The Renaissance era witnessed some of the most iconic instances of artistic patronage, with influential families like the Medici in Italy championing artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. As time progressed, this tradition continued through various art movements, with patrons playing a crucial role in supporting emerging talents and influencing the content and direction of art.
Popspoken: What criteria do you consider when selecting participants to ensure a diverse and exceptional showcase of luxury products?
Angela: We seek out participants who are recognised for their artistry, innovation, and cultural diversity in the realm of luxury. We look for creators and artisans who are well-recognized and successful in their home countries is a key facet of our approach.
This initiative serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it enriches the UltraLuxe experience by bringing a diverse array of artistic influences to our festival, creating a more dynamic and culturally rich atmosphere. Secondly, it offers these talented individuals the opportunity to expand their reach and gain international recognition. Through this exchange, we foster cross-cultural connections, celebrate the richness of global craftsmanship, and contribute to the globalisation of niche luxury.
Popspoken: Sustainability is a growing concern in the luxury industry. How does UltraLuxe address sustainability within the context of luxury products and design?
Angela: Sustainability isn’t just a trend; it’s a cornerstone of our ethos. We firmly believe in the power of luxury to make a positive impact, and this begins with a commitment to the environment, philanthropy, and cultural preservation.
We prioritise brands, artisans and designers who employ sustainable production processes. For example Autore South Sea Pearls is a shining example of a luxury brand that places sustainability at the heart of its operations. Their sustainable initiatives encompass various aspects of their pearl farming and jewellery production, reflecting a holistic commitment to environmental and ethical responsibility.
Our festival actively supports philanthropic initiatives. We have several “invitation-only” events where ticket proceeds go towards causes that matter, ensuring that our celebration of luxury is also a catalyst for positive change where we celebrate the ingenuity of sophisticated beauty and unparalleled craftsmanship.
Additionally, we champion the longevity of luxury products. We celebrate impeccable craftsmanship and timeless design that will be passed down generations, inherently aligning with sustainability.
Popspoken: Looking ahead, what is your long-term vision for the UltraLuxe Festival? How do you hope it will continue to evolve and impact the luxury landscape in Singapore and beyond?
Angela: We envision UltraLuxe Festival as a global beacon of luxury innovation and inspiration. We will dedicate ourselves to building a purposeful collective that connects creators, enthusiasts, and brands worldwide. Through curated experiences, dynamic collaborations, and thought leadership, UltraLuxe aims to reshape the luxury landscape by championing authenticity, sustainability, and craftsmanship. As we continue to grow, our aspiration is to leave an indelible mark, setting new benchmarks for luxury experiences on a global scale.
UltraLuxe that took place from 13-22 October 2023 casts a spotlight on niche luxury from around the world a pioneering lifestyle social festival offering guests from around the world curated exhibitions, red carpet events and networking tête-à-tête. Featured image: Angela Loh, Natasha Vinski-Borneo, Sharon Sim, Oi Yee Choo, Hillary Wijaya Sutjiono Tjioe, Naazli Somjee, Harmin Kaur and Chang Hong.
Editor’s note: The event returns to the TENT@Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza from 4 to 13 October 2024, with key sponsor CIMB Bank. The first-ever “DineLuxe” will spotlight Singapore’s top chefs and their luxurious, “Purism in Culinary” creations, blending Italian and Eurasian cuisines.
