Makua jewelry
ROLE
USA / COLOMBIA
Creative Direction . Web design . Strategy
Led narrative strategy, content development, and UI/UX direction for the website redesign of Alejandra Ruiz, a multidisciplinary artist and designer. Reframed her services and digital structure to support her research-driven practice, shaping a platform that reflects her experimental, science-based, and academic approach. Collaborated closely throughout concept development and execution to deliver a cohesive digital experience aligned with her studio methodology.
Partnering with indigenous communities for inclusive innovation
Alongside Maria-Paulina Arango, Creative director of Makua.
Kuna women sharing their ancestral knowledge
Kuna women from Uraba, Colombia creating “Molas”
The Kuna indigenous community, are known for their intricate "molas," which are handcrafted textiles featuring multiple layers adorned with symbols and patterns. These symbols often draw inspiration from medical plants, protective icons, legends, and tales from their culture. The creation and wearing of molas serves as a way for these women to preserve their history and pass down their stories for generations to come, making the molas “living history books”.
Embera Chami indigenous community from Antioquia, Colombia
The bead work of the Embera Chami indigenous community is a traditional art form that involves creating sophisticated designs and patterns using small beads. The beads were traditionally made from seeds, shells, or other natural materials. Embera Chami bead work is known for its bright colors and detailed patterns, which often depict animals, plants, and other elements of the natural world. In addition to being used for jewelry, the bead work of the Embera Chami also has cultural and spiritual significance, as it is often used in traditional ceremonies and rituals.
Cocama & Tikuna indigenous communities in Amazonia, Colombia
The Cocama and Tikuna indigenous communities in Amazonia, Colombia are known for their artistic talents, each with their own unique focus. The Cocama are masters of woodwork, crafting everything from intricate bowls and cups to practical spoons and small objects using traditional techniques. Meanwhile, the Tikuna are experts in working with fibers and natural dyes, creating stunning woven baskets, jewelry and textiles that showcase their cultural heritage. These talented artisans take great pride in their handicrafts, which are not only useful in their daily lives but also serve as a way to preserve and celebrate their culture.
Capturing culture through the lens
Kuna tule woman, wearing a mola.
Nature: my greatest inspiration
Styling, photography, art direction and graphic design
Model: Isabel Gomez
Social media assets
Feed design for Instagram
