Marvilla: the dynamic dance of colors
PRODUCTION: Ademán
product photography:
Marvilla
In the captivating creative universe, entry into university can be perceived as an exclusive privilege. However, for Mariana Villa, hailing from the enchanting Tepoztlán, Morelos, Mexico, it was much more than a mere privilege. It was a personal challenge, a journey where each step was outlined with determination and steadfastness. When Mariana made the decision to embark on her academic odyssey, she chose the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), the academic jewel of the country.
This journey was not without challenges; UNAM, being a distinguished public university, presented notable obstacles in its admission process. The discipline of industrial design, in particular, imposed even stricter requirements, limiting acceptance to only sixty students per generation. This highly competitive process marked the beginning of her journey, where each achievement was not a result of chance but of the dedication and passion that Mariana infused into her educational voyage.
In the intricate tapestry of creation, the necessity to decree and craft with one's own hands becomes a pivotal choice. Mariana Villa found herself standing at this crossroads, contemplating whether to tread the path of an artisan or embrace the realm of an industrial designer. As her journey unfolded, she discovered a harmonious balance between both roles, seamlessly merging the worlds of wheel pottery teaching and artistic collaboration.
The canvas of her creativity expanded further as artists sought her expertise to breathe life into their sculptures. In this role, Mariana nurtured the artistic visions of others. Beyond these multifaceted roles, she embarked on establishing her own brand: Marvilla. As the founder, creative director, and designer, Mariana navigated the intricate landscape of entrepreneurship.
Her design philosophy emerged from a profound understanding of the production process, a synthesis of expertise from both artisanal and industrial perspectives. Reflecting on her educational journey, Mariana acknowledged the significance of being schooled in the art of crafting with one's hands. This experiential foundation became a cornerstone, empowering her to lead teams with a nuanced comprehension of what was achievable and technically sound.
In a world where some may rely solely on artisans, Mariana's approach stood out. For her, design was a perpetual conversation with people. The hands-on experience she cultivated became an invaluable asset, a compass guiding her through the intricate realms of design.
In the dynamic realm of pottery, the vibrant pulse of life resonates globally, now more prevalent than ever. What once started as a niche art form has evolved into mainstream culture, with ceramic art capturing the imaginations of many. Mariana Villa embarked on this creative odyssey, pushing the boundaries of tradition and weaving her narrative into the rich tapestry of ceramics.
Her journey unfolded against the backdrop of a world where ceramic workshops were a rare find. Motivated by a desire to modernize this craft, Mariana sought to infuse her unique perspective into the tradition. Rooted in her academic experiences, she delved into exploring the nuances of identity through various forms and shapes.
Mariana's artistic expression is notably influenced by Mexican and Hispanic shapes, evident in the distinctive contours of her pieces. Yet, her design philosophy embraces simplicity and minimalism, encapsulating the essence of "just the necessary lines for it to exist." The magic unfolds in her meticulous approach, where each stroke serves a purpose.
The ceramic medium became Mariana's canvas for innovation during her school years. Designing, molding, and experimenting with an array of glazes, she discovered the transformative power of color. The same design took on diverse characters through the alchemy of glaze—a fascinating journey akin to dressing a concept in different hues.
Contemplating the interplay between shape and color became a central theme in Mariana's creative process. The intriguing question surfaced: what takes precedence, the form or the hue? A dynamic dance unfolded in her mind, sparking a creative interplay that continues to fuel her artistic endeavors.
INTERVIEWER
Your philosophy about color matching
Marvilla
For me matching colors is all about having fun! After I have developed the design, focusing on proportion and geometry, I like to play around with different glazes to see how they can transform the same piece. I also take into consideration the specific use of the item, as it can influence the perception of color. For example, there may be colors that I really like on cups but would never suggest for plates. Overall, I enjoy the process of exploring and discovering how colors can enhance and transform an object.
INTERVIEWER
Your attachment to Pre-Columbian Mexican Culture
Marvilla
I spent a significant part of my childhood and adolescence growing up in museums such as Templo Mayor, Museo de las Culturas, Museo de Antropología, and Museo Regional de Querétaro. Both of my parents worked there, my mother specializing in museum exhibition design and my father in cultural management. They were also involved in a project called REPROSA, which focused on reproducing pre-Hispanic ceramic pieces. This topic has always been present in my life. I find human relationship with clay fascinating. Pottery around the globe is a record of rituals and daily life throughout history, while at the same time techniques to elaborate clay haven't changed much over time.
INTERVIEWER
The magic of your hometown Tepoztlan - any mystical qualities you hold from there?
Marvilla
I was born in water on a ranch in Tepoz, which was already quite mystical for the time, but I didn't grow up in that land. Now it's a place I often go to rest from the city and to connect with myself. My pieces are sold at Parcela, which is a beautiful place and the best restaurant in Tepoztlán.
Your philosophy about color matching
Marvilla
For me matching colors is all about having fun! After I have developed the design, focusing on proportion and geometry, I like to play around with different glazes to see how they can transform the same piece. I also take into consideration the specific use of the item, as it can influence the perception of color. For example, there may be colors that I really like on cups but would never suggest for plates. Overall, I enjoy the process of exploring and discovering how colors can enhance and transform an object.
INTERVIEWER
Your attachment to Pre-Columbian Mexican Culture
Marvilla
I spent a significant part of my childhood and adolescence growing up in museums such as Templo Mayor, Museo de las Culturas, Museo de Antropología, and Museo Regional de Querétaro. Both of my parents worked there, my mother specializing in museum exhibition design and my father in cultural management. They were also involved in a project called REPROSA, which focused on reproducing pre-Hispanic ceramic pieces. This topic has always been present in my life. I find human relationship with clay fascinating. Pottery around the globe is a record of rituals and daily life throughout history, while at the same time techniques to elaborate clay haven't changed much over time.
INTERVIEWER
The magic of your hometown Tepoztlan - any mystical qualities you hold from there?
Marvilla
I was born in water on a ranch in Tepoz, which was already quite mystical for the time, but I didn't grow up in that land. Now it's a place I often go to rest from the city and to connect with myself. My pieces are sold at Parcela, which is a beautiful place and the best restaurant in Tepoztlán.
In the vivid canvas of Mexico, color emerges as a captivating thread intricately woven into our collective identity. It surpasses the boundaries of social class, town, or educational background, akin to the ubiquitous presence of tortillas in our lives. Mariana Villa, rooted in this colorful cultural tapestry, embarked on a creative journey where color became not just a visual feast but a narrative deeply connected to the essence of Mexican life.
The inception of Mariana's artistic exploration mirrors the communal tradition of sharing meals with tortillas. The Molcajete, a symbol of culinary heritage, became the muse for her initial creations. In every corner of Mexico, from bustling cities to serene villages, the shared experience of enjoying tortillas unites diverse communities.
Delving into the origins of this cultural richness, Mariana finds herself drawn to Central Jorgen among the five origin centers. Within this tapestry of heritage, Mexico and La Milpa emerge as unique centers practicing polyculture—a harmonious blend that mirrors the multi-faceted beauty of the country itself.
In Mariana's narrative, color transcends the realm of aesthetics; it becomes a cultural language spoken by every tortilla shared and every Molcajete crafted. It is a journey that celebrates the vibrancy of Mexican identity, where the colors tell stories, and the culinary traditions become a canvas for artistic expression.
The inception of Mariana's artistic exploration mirrors the communal tradition of sharing meals with tortillas. The Molcajete, a symbol of culinary heritage, became the muse for her initial creations. In every corner of Mexico, from bustling cities to serene villages, the shared experience of enjoying tortillas unites diverse communities.
Delving into the origins of this cultural richness, Mariana finds herself drawn to Central Jorgen among the five origin centers. Within this tapestry of heritage, Mexico and La Milpa emerge as unique centers practicing polyculture—a harmonious blend that mirrors the multi-faceted beauty of the country itself.
In Mariana's narrative, color transcends the realm of aesthetics; it becomes a cultural language spoken by every tortilla shared and every Molcajete crafted. It is a journey that celebrates the vibrancy of Mexican identity, where the colors tell stories, and the culinary traditions become a canvas for artistic expression.