A Mexico City art studio is making waves in the design world by forging ethical partnerships with traditional Mexican artisans. M.A. Estudio, founded in 2017 by visual artist Melissa Ávila, creates sculptures, carpets, and decorative art objects that celebrate Mexico’s rich artisanal heritage while ensuring fair treatment for all collaborators.
The studio works with materials deeply rooted in Mexico’s handcrafting traditions, including wool, clay, wood, palm, minerals, volcanic stone, ceramics, tin, and cotton. These materials are transformed into contemporary art pieces through collaborations with artisan families from regions known for their craft expertise, including Oaxaca, Chiapas, Guerrero, Puebla, Michoacán, and Mexico State.
What sets M.A. Estudio apart is its commitment to building long-term relationships with artisans and ensuring equitable treatment throughout the creation process. The studio operates on what it calls a “360-degree approach” to fair trade, striving to make the production and sales process viable for everyone involved.
One notable collaboration is the GEEL series, designed with members of the Purépecha community from Michoacán. This collection showcases a traditional technique that uses mud, fine black sand, and red earth (charanda) to create smooth clay finishes.
M.A. Estudio’s approach goes beyond simply reselling handicrafts. The studio integrates thoughtful design processes deeply connected to traditional communities, resulting in contemporary pieces that honor Mexico’s artistic heritage while providing sustainable income for artisans.
As consumer interest in ethical production and sourcing continues to grow, M.A. Estudio offers a model for how design studios can work respectfully with traditional artisans while creating innovative, modern art objects.
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