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Magdalena Ayme

"I was born in Quinua (Ayacucho), known as the capital of Peruvian arts and crafts. And though my family wasn't what you would say well-off, we have always been are a close-knit family with good values and with goals to fulfill in life.

"When I was 14 I learnt to craft traditional retablos (dioramas). The work is a family legacy, shared by her grandparents, parents and brothers. A colorful expression of Andean culture, the retablos are made from a wide variety of materials such as wood, cardboard, eggshells and yarn. The figures are molded individually and painted by hand. These were my first steps into the world of art and honestly, I loved it so much that I never felt the need to look elsewhere.

"I specialize in retablos, as well as other forms of crafts, to which I dedicate all of my efforts. I would describe my work as an expression of the Andes: my art represents my land, my customs and my traditions. I am motivated by a desire to support my family and above all, to teach my children so they may value their roots and never forget where they come from.

"This art form is everything to me, because not only is it a way to support my family, but it is something I enjoy doing with my hands, just like my grandparents taught me. And now, I'm passing this on to my children by teaching them.

"My greatest challenge, which is also my greatest wish, is to have my work travel across borders and reach people's homes as well as their hearts."