Our HINU Home series explores the personal connection we have with our hair and the way rituals help bring us back home to ourselves.
Photography by Ben Rayner
"I believe hair holds story, experiences, and wisdom"
Meet Holly Rona, an exceptionally talented photographer and jewellery designer whose creative journey is deeply intertwined with her profound connection to the natural world and her Indonesian heritage. Holly’s art, inspired by nature’s elements and ancient cultural traditions, is more than just a visual experience—it’s a narrative that honours her roots and reflects timeless stories.
What inspired you to start making jewellery?
I started learning the way of jewellery & silver smithing to incorporate a creative practice into wearable art. Ive always had an attraction to gold and silver. Dripping silver from the ears and rings stacks in top of each other on hands. I see that each piece has a story, has an intention.
What inspires your designs?
I would say my designs are inspired by the raw natural world. To wear an element; silver, to adorn our body's as nature. I would also say my ancestors, my culture, (Indonesian) use jewellery in ceremonies. It's a tradition and I think I am highly inspired by ancient cultural pieces and Im trying to integrate it into our daily wearable arts. Everyday is a blessing.
Holly is using the Jade Scalp Stimulator.
What relationship do you have with your hair? Has it evolved over the years?
I believe hair holds story, holds experiences and wisdom. When I was mid teen I was going through a lot of turmoil. Rediscovering my ancestry, reconnecting with my father in Bali & finding my identity. During this time I cut all my hair off. I wasn't able to hold the old with the new. Ever since then I've been growing it with minimal cuts and just trims (maybe one a year).
I've grown old with my hair. It's been over a decade and so much has happened that has shaped me and helped me learn. My father has passed & I've deepened into myself. I hold these moments so dearly to me and I believe that these moments are stored in my hair. I haven't been able to go through with a major cut for many years but I believe when I am ready I will be able to do it with reverence.
What hair rituals do you currently do?
My hair care is minimal, but when I tend to my hair it's very intentional. This rituals include; hair oiling with the Hair Growth Oil after every shower, to strengthen, protect and support healthy hair growth.
Scalp massaging, a way for me to drop into my body & the moment, to give back to myself after a day of moving & braiding my hair back as a way to help protect it from daily life and the harsh conditions.
HOLLY'S HINU HOME PLAYLIST
I. Where Are You Going - GIMMY
II. Performer - Maple Glider
III. My Love Mine All Mine - Mitski
IV. The Good Days & The Bad Days - Harmony Byrne
V. Both Sides Of The Moon - Celeste
VI. For Me - Danika Smith
VII. Fall On Me - GIMMY
VIII. Good Thing - Maple Glider
IX. Mood Song - Angie McMahon
X. Wolf - Indigo Sparke
Listen on Spotify
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