05/06, 2026
Villus Studio: Between story and structure
with Tommy Park and Linda Wang
Written by Kaya Hwang
Villus Studio explores jewelry as a space where narrative, symbolism, and form converge. In this conversation, creative director Tommy Park and designer Linda Wang reflect on the relationship between storytelling and construction, the atmospheres that shape their work, and the distinct world they continue to build through Villus Studio.
On Atmosphere, Movement, and Creative Rhythm
Before discussing specific pieces, is there a particular kind of weather or season in New York that you feel most creatively connected to?
We definitely feel most connected to the city when the seasons start to shift. For us, autumn is that perfect “middle ground” where we can actually think clearly.
Over the years, we’ve realized that we’re not the type of people who can sit in a silent room and come up with ideas. We need to be outside—seeing the city and feeling the atmosphere. Even back in our student days, we were always drawn to shared spaces. That kind of energy makes the creative process feel more alive.
If the weather is good enough to be out in it, that’s usually when our best ideas show up.
If Villus Studio were a kind of weather or season, what would it be?
Villus Studio is winter. Crisp, sharp, cold—and it carries this duality of beauty and brutality.
On Living and Making
Do you find that your daily life naturally flows into your work, or do you try to keep the two separate?
I honestly don’t think I could separate the two even if I tried. As a creative, you’re kind of always “on.”
My best ideas rarely come when I’m actually sitting down to work. They usually happen during a random walk through the neighborhood or a casual conversation with a friend. For me, it’s about staying genuinely curious—always asking “why” things are the way they are, or imagining the backstories of people I see.
That curiosity becomes the fuel for everything I do. It naturally seeps into the work.
When encountering a source of inspiration, do you tend to approach it through narrative?When encountering a source of inspiration, do you tend to approach it through narrative?
I’m definitely the one who gets caught up in the story—the “world” an object lives in.
I really believe people are naturally purpose-driven. We’re always looking for a reason to care. When you understand the “why” behind something, or the story of the person who made it, that becomes the real connection point.
To me, that narrative is what makes an object valuable. Otherwise, it’s just “stuff.” So I’m always looking for that thread of a story first.
On Beginning a Collaboration
How did you first begin working together, and what made you realize your perspectives aligned?
We actually started out wanting to build a fashion brand. Linda already had her own line, and I joined to handle art direction and branding.
But as we got deeper into it, we realized we weren’t as excited about clothing as we were about accessories. We both felt that an outfit isn’t really complete until you put on the jewelry. It’s those final elements—the rings, the necklaces—that completely transform the look.
We fell in love with that idea: that there’s so much power in the small things. That’s where our perspectives really clicked.
On Contrast and Hidden Narratives
What kind of impression did you hope people would have when first encountering the Chandelier Earring?
Tommy: With the Chandelier Earring, we wanted to play with a sense of juxtaposition.
At first glance, it looks like an opulent, beautiful piece—a classic hoop with a stone that has that chandelier-like sparkle. But if you look closer, the design is actually inspired by the hilt of a sword.
I love that contrast—a “dangerous” backstory hidden behind something visually delicate. I want the person wearing it to feel more than just “pretty.” I want them to feel empowered, like they’re wearing a subtle piece of armor.
What aspects did you focus on when translating this idea into a physical object?
Linda: It’s essential for me to fully observe and absorb the details of an inspiration, and then reconstruct them with a modern accent.
For the Chandelier Earrings, we focused on the movement of the shining crystals and the structural composition of traditional chandeliers.
I’m often drawn to objects or forms that leave a lasting impression. I like exploring how a single shape can carry a story through variations in scale and repetition.
Interestingly, I feel most satisfied when a design is about 90% complete. Leaving that final 10% unresolved creates space—for both myself and the audience—to reinterpret the piece in their own way. That openness is an essential part of the design.
On Narrative and Construction
Does the title of a piece usually come before or after the design begins to take shape?
The name usually comes after the form starts to develop.
We’re really drawn to mythology and characters from iconic stories that have been passed down over time. That’s often where we begin.
When a piece begins with a strong narrative, how does that influence your design decisions?
Absolutely. When a piece begins with a strong narrative, it informs every stage of the design process—and even extends beyond it.
Something as subtle as the finish on a silver piece can completely shift its emotional direction.
On Building a World
When someone encounters Villus Studio for the first time, how would you like them to experience it?
Since we’re still in the early stages, the most important thing for me is that people walk away feeling that Villus Studio has a very specific point of view—something that stays with them.
It feels like everyone is starting a brand right now, and a lot of the stories and aesthetics are beginning to blend together. I want our world to feel like the opposite of that—something distinctly ours.
“The world we’re building is quintessential Villus Studio. When you see it, you’ll understand it.”
Details
Brand: Villus Studio
Product: Villus Studio Chandelier Earring, Attis Ring
Villus Studio Product
Chandelier Earring
Attis Ring
$285
$260
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The Chandelier Earring is a piece inspired by design elements from the hilt of a medieval sword.
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925 Sterling Silver
92.5% silver alloy
Durable with a natural metallic sheen
May develop a natural patina over time
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The Attis Ring is a seashell inspired ring that comes in two finishes, both made of 925 sterling silver.
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925 Sterling Silver
92.5% silver alloy
Durable with a natural metallic sheen
May develop a natural patina over time
Aegis Ring
$210
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The Aegis Ring is inspired by the masterful metalwork of the rivets found in Medieval armor.
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925 Sterling Silver
92.5% silver alloy
Durable with a natural metallic sheen
May develop a natural patina over time