Andean Artisan Crafted Hardwood and Leather Accent Table, "Chestnut"

Rocio Davila finds joy in living and creating, in realizing those little things that make life large. She has found artistic fulfillment in product design, working primarily with leather and gourds.

"Although I have taken courses in artistic design, I consider myself self-taught, since I have learned more from practice over the years. My work strives to show the inherent goodness of artisan labor, which is useful, durable, and ornamental. Through my own work, I enjoy sharing, and showing that we are able to do a labor of love in which we teach something of our own culture. I dedicate myself exclusively to this activity, and have formed a small working community of artisan families to generate a sustained production.

"My designs were exhibited in the United States (Miami) in 2000, and have been sent to other countries as well. At the same time, I have participated in special fairs locally. It has been a real challenge for me to dedicate myself to this art but, despite the difficulties, I have never been sorry. I am content, but not satisfied, with what I have achieved so far.

"For me, Novica is a challenge. I am aware that as far as product quality, Novica customers are very selective, but I have confidence that my works will prevail since two things are important to me: beauty and utility."



Davila's artistic and creative streak has taken her to explore different mediums and she enrolled in a design course offered by Lima's Art Museum. Apart from working with gourds, Davila designs unique home furnishings that bear her distinct mark, focusing only on natural materials.