Marco Florindez "I make the most of materials that others usually discard. Nothing is junk – I can use everything. This takes me back to my childhood when my imagination could transform a stone into a truck." "I'm Marco Antonio Floríndez Jáuregui and I was born in Chachapoyas in 1978. From the time I was a boy, I was inclined toward design. I remember that I didn't have any toys or the possibility of getting any. I'd see my cousin with his little trucks and think, 'I want one just like that.' So I'd go down to the river and pick up stones. With them, I'd invent my own cars and toys. They made me very happy, as I'd made them myself however I wanted. "When I was a teen, I studied maintenance mechanics in the city of Cajamarca. What I learned there enabled me to work and to depict my own ideas in metal. With my classmates and the help of one of our teachers, we made a life-size sculpture of a man out of junk. It was on display there for three years in the Feria del Fangal. "After graduation, I returned home and taught mechanics in technical schools there. Eventually I left to complement my knowledge of metal mechanics with studies in design. I began a course in interior design but, due to economic problems, I couldn't finish. However I remained in contact with my classmates and they told me about the third national contest in locksmith work. I entered and came out as one of the finalists. I felt so proud! "For my designs, I use all the components than can be used. My specialty is working in cold metal. I try to make the most of materials that others usually discard. Nothing is junk – I can use everything. This takes me back to my childhood when my imagination could transform a stone into a truck. Of course, it all took place in my own mind. "I try to make my designs simple but attractive and innovative. The great Spanish architect Calatrava has been an example for me. I like to put aero-spatial details into my work, and I also like to use Inca iconography. I want my work to be different, distinct from what you'd usually find. "What I do is fun for me. Sometimes I can't sleep at night as I think of new designs. When I finally finish a design, it's never exactly what I thought it would be. But I stick with it until it becomes what I dreamed it would be, and I feel so proud when I achieve it. The most interesting part is that, when you finish one piece, another comes to mind. "Each of my designs is a way of expressing what we can't say or do in real life. I create art that tries to defy gravity. "My greatest dream is to set up a workshop where I can create my works and, at the same time, help other artisans from my province. Help them achieve their dreams, help those with hidden talent who, for economic reasons, haven't been able to practice their art. "I once had the opportunity to teach, and this is another of my dreams – to pass my knowledge on to others so that with their ideas and my skill they can make wonderful things."

	Customer Reviews
		I couldn't be more delighted with the vibrant colors and muscular textures of the wall sculpture, "Expansive Vigor." It's a beautiful piece that somehow combines precision with heft, all with an arresting design that is powerfully evocative of the Andes. - Rick Lewis, Miami, FL I ordered the sculpture "Seed of Hope". I really like the piece. It's workmanship and quality will long be enjoyed. - Dale We purchased the Machu Piccu Copper Mirror and it is absolutely beautiful! Very solid, even more striking than the picture of it. Could not be more pleased.... - Kanwal Hello Marco, I received your sculpture, "Loneliness" today. Its a remarkable work!. I think it speaks to anyone who has felt alone or lonely for whatever reason; and the casual pensive pose of the figure is in chilling contrast to the anatomical tautness of his inner self depicted by your brilliant use of the nails. This is one treasure I am keeping! Thank you again. - anthony1, london, UK The Inca Highways mirror is in my guest bathroom. I love its Arts and Crafts style and the workmanship is first-rate. - Deborah Inspired work that is now a family treasure. Thank you so much. - Jennifer Inca Wisdom is Inspired work that is spiritual and functional. Thank you so much. - Jennifer I ordered your 'Blue Fountain of Hope' sculpture for my son for Christmas. He picked it out personally and chose if from the 100's of items available at Novica. It just arrived and it's absolutely stunning and he dearly loves it. Thank you so much, you are very talented. Jenni - Koshari, Indiana, USA