A socially responsible brand that promotes Mexican culture and its artisans in the heart of London
We bring a small piece of Mexico and of the talented artisans we work with, creating a platform that promotes the diversity of skill and craft found in many remote corners of the country.
Artisans are traced back to Ancient Egypt, where they catered to the pharaohs and the elite who treated them merely as common laborers, rarely praising the artisan for their mastery and skill. During the Renaissance period, however, the artisan first began to receive recognition for their genius and individual vision as creative workers - after all, the word derives from the Italian"artigiano" which stems from the latin artitus, meaning "instructed in the arts". These circumstances gave rise to the great artists that we celebrate to day, such as Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci.
Mexican Artisans’ roots derive from prehistoric, religious, and social matters, with their handcrafts stemming from the immense and rich cultural diversity the country possesses. They primarily come from rural communities where local resources like clay, wood, metals, and textiles have always been used to create unique pieces, continuing with the use of traditional techniques across generations.
In Mexico there are more than sixty ethnic groups, and many of them produce more than one handcraft, creating an immense diversity of products with inherent historical value. Collectively, these pieces tell the story of Mexico, and we are very proud to share some of the work from very talented artisans with you.
Artisans and craftsmen have very similar occupations: they make objects, often artistic, with their hands. However, while artisans may repeat the items they make, they tend to ideate and design by creative inspiration and aim to capture qualities of beauty that may not have a functional value (i.e. a unique bracelet or sculpture). Craftsmen focus on replicating a given piece exactly the same way to technical and material specifications.
Artisans are professionals who have honed their hands-on artistic skills in a particular field; wether it is a unique handwoven fabrics, leather pieces, ceramics, amongst others items. Before the industrial revolution, which resulted in the mass production of goods, artisans held a high position in the society. Today, such objects have a high value on the market because they were handmade, carrying with them a unique value.
As we continue to grow our collection, you can find a a wide variety of one-off pieces in our studio. We would love to welcome you into our space amd introduce you to the world of Mexican handcrafts.
Studio Visits
Our studio is located a short walk away from Holland Park tube station, where we showcase and sell our pieces all year around by appointment only.
You can find a variety of handcrafts from around Mexico, whilst learning about the story behind every piece in a very private but laid back setting.
Be it with a cup of tea - or some tequila if you want to embrace the true Mexican spirit - we would love to share part of our beautiful country with you.
Simply send us an email to book an appointment and we will take care of the rest.