Ethical Principles

Why our ethical principles are the soil of Under The Root existence

We believe creativity does not exist in isolation; it is relational, biodiverse, from the aether, magically spun, summoned among fires.
“Artists are explorers of the collective interior.” - Cristiano Leone

Every decision and choice we make - in design, materials, collaborations, companionships, and communications - carries the wave of an echo. These ethical principles guide how we live, design, grow, and show up. We nourish that soil and tend to the roots specifically to evolve as lush and courageous as the planet itself.

What We Stand For

Respect for the People and Communities

  • every individual is treated with dignity, fairness, and kindness

  • we commit to inclusivity and do not tolerate discrimination of any kind

  • we advocate for fair compensation, ethical labor, and transparency in all partnerships

Integrity and Honesty

  • we communicate clearly and truthfully about process, costs, expectations, and limitations

  • we admit mistakes, correct them, and learn from them

  • we value authenticity over shortcuts, trends, or empty promises

Environmental and Material Consciousness

  • we prioritize sustainable, reclaimed, renewable, or responsibly sourced materials whenever feasible

  • we minimize waste, reuse supplies, and make environmentally informed decisions

  • we honor the natural world through careful, conscious design choices

Creative Responsibility and Thoughtfulness

  • we design with intention, curiosity, and care for context, community, and meaning

  • we listen deeply to clients, collaborators, and communities

  • we regard design as a bridge to connect, support, and empower

Ethical Business Practices

  • we provide fair, transparent contracts and honest pricing

  • we prioritize working with collaborators and suppliers who share our sensibilities

  • we refuse exploitation of people, ideas, or resources even when it is convenient

Boundaries, Agency, and Clarity

  • clear, explicit agreements before beginning any work together

  • respect of physical, emotional, and creative boundaries between clients, collaborators, and participants

  • no is a valid answer

Cultural Humility

  • approach cultures with humility, respect, self-reflection, and a willingness to learn

  • acknowledge the cultural origins of techniques, motifs, materials, and practices

  • listen to voices from communities whose cultures inform or inspire our work

  • engage in ongoing learning

  • invite constructive criticism and adjust practices when harm or oversight is identified

Accountability and Continual Growth

  • we reflect regularly on how our actions align with our ethical principles

  • we seek and welcome feedback from clients, collaborators, and communities

  • we evolve our practices as we learn, honoring this as our living commitment

 
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