Linen Handbags

"Ever since I can remember I've always loved the arts, and living around Lake Atitlán and Sacatepéquez made me appreciate our Maya communities, their lifestyle and their artistic traditions. I learned, from a very young age, that Guatemala has a rich and immense artistic potential and an amazing variety of artistic talent.

"I consider myself fortunate and blessed to have the opportunity to further explore our artistic legacy. I am interested in the fusion between ancestral, traditional techniques and contemporary ones. I believe that through this fusion we can invite a greater variety of artisans and artists to work in the field of handicrafts.

"My journey through the path of arts and crafts has been dotted with trials and errors, but thanks to this experience and practice I have arrived to where I am now. I love designing and working alongside artisans – that's how I gauge what can be done and mixing it with the classic and new.

"Nature is my main source of inspiration, which is why we predominantly use natural materials such as jute, cotton and leather. For the most part we use materials that have been prepared by hand, in traditional looms. Some designs are crafted by recycling apparel, and others combine leather and fabric.

"The techniques for crafting each piece depends on it finish. My favorite thing to do is mixing up techniques, materials and textures so that in one single piece one you appreciate a variety of Guatemalan characteristics.

"I enjoy working with artisans who are willing to experiment and try new things. They are open-minded artisans with a great talent who will craft anything they want to. This, together with a clear and sincere communication has enabled me to establish long and lasting friendships.

"Thank you for inviting me to join Novica Guatemala, it fills me with a great sense of satisfaction. It is an opportunity to improve the quality of life of those artisans who collaborate with me."