Established in 2017 by the imaginative duo of Natalia Kamenska and Maria Gavryliuk from Ukraine, GUNIA Project merges as a brand specializing in crafting extraordinary interior pieces and accessories, drawing inspiration from traditional ethnic cultures and extensive ethnographic exploration.
Natalia Kamenska and Maria Gavryliuk have formed a solid professional bond over ten years, initially crossing paths in the fast-paced fashion world. Their collaboration began when Natalia, the creative force behind 'KAMENSKAKONONOVA' (later rebranded as 'Lake Studio'), welcomed Maria into the team. Maria's dedication and talent quickly propelled her from an assistant role to the position of art director in 2017. However, the fashion industry's relentless speed and cutthroat competition began to take its toll on both of them, igniting a shared desire to create something more enduring and impactful.
In a pivotal moment in 2017, Natalia, accompanied by a group of passionate individuals, embarked on a journey to the Carpathian Mountains in search of the enchanting touch of age-old artisans. While their initial intention was not to focus on Ukrainian culture, the expedition unveiled hidden treasures of traditional crafts and skills. This profound discovery awakened Natalia to the deep depth of Ukrainian culture that Soviet-era stereotypes had obscured. She felt an overwhelming urge to unearth and celebrate the authentic splendor of Ukraine's heritage. Sharing this newfound inspiration with Maria, the duo set sail on a creative voyage, curating collections that showcased iconic Ukrainian elements: traditional garments, intricately designed scarves, and, eventually, the vibrant world of ceramics. This fusion of passion, heritage, and craftsmanship began the GUNIA Project era.
It was back in 2017 when the GUNIA Project took flight with the traditional "gunya" – a woolen coat crafted in the Carpathian Mountains. This technique involves shearing wool from sheep, which is then washed, spun into fibers, and woven into the fabric of the coat. A distinctive aspect of this technique is the washing of wool in the Carpathian rivers, which imparts the "gunyas" with their unique texture and warmth. Natalia has modernized these coats to infuse them with style and contemporary flair while preserving the traditional manufacturing method.
Since its inception, the brand has dedicated itself to crafting genuine decor, ceramics, glassware, wooden creations, vine products, and jewelry. They have also ventured into designing one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories that possess a timeless allure while remaining current and stylish. GUNIA Project skillfully captures the essence of various historical eras, imprinting its distinctive mark on every piece.
One of the standout features of the brand is its collection of meticulously handcrafted ceramics, each boasting unique patterns and a distinct design. The brand's founders have made it their mission to seek out and bring together the most skilled artisans from across the country, ensuring the continuation of the rich Ukrainian ceramics tradition. The manufacturing process of each ceramic product involves a meticulous eight-step journey, with each stage executed flawlessly to ensure the final product emerges as a masterpiece after the kilning process.
In the GUNIA Project, the social aspect of the work is deeply intertwined with the brand’s mission to preserve and honor Ukrainian cultural heritage. Natalia and Maria aspire to be ambassadors of all things Ukrainian globally. Their primary social focus lies in the search for craftsmen throughout Ukraine. By collaborating with these artisans, the founders provide them a platform to showcase their talents. In a world that favors mass production, the creative duo firmly believes in the value of handmade craftsmanship.
Through the GUNIA Project’s creations, Natalia and Maria aim to educate local and global audiences about the richness of Ukrainian culture. The founders want the world to recognize and appreciate the beauty and depth of their traditions. By incorporating ancient techniques into modern designs, the duo makes them accessible and appealing to a broader audience. This cultural exchange is vital in preserving these traditions for future generations.
