Brands BLACKWOOD Atelier and RUDA Studio have created a joint capsule collection ANIMA—a deep exploration of the human soul through the prism of animism, reimagined folklore, and natural elements. Rooted in the concept of complete unity between humanity and the environment, the name ANIMA traces back to primal origins: it signifies the soul, the breath of life, and the conscious path each person takes in search of their own truth. The collection emerged at the intersection of two artisanal worlds—handbag craftsmanship from BLACKWOOD Atelier and product and furniture design from RUDA Studio. The signature wooden side panels of BLACKWOOD Atelier bags served as the base for a painstaking, almost jewel-like straw marquetry technique—inlaid rye straw crafted by RUDA Studio.

The dialogue of materials unfolds through an organic combination of two unique textures. For this collection, natural leather with a deep dye and chrome effect was chosen, preserving its natural textured surface with fine lines and folds, emphasizing the authenticity and expressiveness of the material. Straw marquetry serves as a harmonious addition: hand-processed and dyed straw possesses the ability to naturally shimmer under different viewing angles, refracting light to create an effect of refined radiance that comes alive in motion.

The conceptual core of the collection features three female figures from Ukrainian folklore—Mavka, Vodianytsia, and Povitruia—who personify three spaces of human existence: terrestrial, subaquatic, and celestial, reflecting the harmonious connection between the conscious, subconscious, and superconscious states. The first figure, Mavka, acts as the spirit of the earth and forest, embodying the conscious mind, a sense of grounding, and trust in one’s instincts. She is embodied in the Fjord model, where the distinct geometry of the bags in a rich green color with a golden sheen highlights the bionic floral pattern of straw marquetry, recreating tall grasses, willow branches, and braided hair. The second figure, Vodianytsia, embodies the spirit of water, the subconscious, and flexibility. For her, the Aurora model was chosen, whose smooth, rounded lines in a deep night-blue color are complemented by marquetry with the texture of fish scales and wave-like lines. The third figure, Povitruia, embodies the spirit of the wind, the superconscious, and absolute freedom. She is revealed in the Sandy model with light gray leather gleaming with a golden shimmer, and a straw composition that conveys the lightness of air currents and the twilight sky.

An essential and aesthetic core of the collection is an interior art object—a collectible wooden chest on solid brass feet, designed to carefully preserve the most precious memories and personal artifacts. In its narrative concept, the chest unites all three mythological creatures on the border of their elements, embodying a powerful symbol of unity, inner support, and the strength of sisterhood. The art object is hand-inlaid with dyed rye straw using the marquetry technique, forming a unique narrative applique with a soft natural glow.The ANIMA collection is created as a space of personal meanings, where each item serves as a talisman that enhances the inner energy and state of its owner.