With a unique ability to blend traditional and digital art forms, Maria constantly challenges artistic norms, creating pieces that resonate deeply with her audience. Her collaborations with prominent brands have further elevated her status as a versatile artist. Her philosophy revolves around using art as a tool to connect, transform, and inspire. Also to make art that’s affordable and wearable.
Today, we delve into Maria’s creative journey, exploring the stories behind her remarkable achievements and her vision for the future of art.
Customizing with Art
What draws you to the idea of personalization in art, and how do you approach making each piece uniquely resonate with its owner?
I used to work as a fashion designer and completed my Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in this field, so for me, the connection between fashion and art is translated through creating a story for the owner of a custom piece. The idea is not new, but the way I like it to present is my aesthetical interpretation of the customer brief.
Do you view customization as a collaboration between artist and client? How does their input shape your creative process?
Yes. It’s always a brief from the client in the works. Often they require only a certain color to be used or a specific character, pattern. Sometimes they provide a fixed design but we still discuss the approach according to the fabric or the cut of the item. Some clients they give me so much freedom and i love that.
Is there a specific piece of customized art you created that stands out to you as particularly meaningful? Why?
I have one. It’s a super vibrant pair that i customized it in the style of Picasso with lots of mixed neons and small details. They look like a duo painting.
It’s a piece that i don’t wanna sell.
Upcycled Art
What inspired you to embrace upcycled materials in your work, and how does sustainability influence your creative philosophy?
The fashion industry is one of the largest polluters in the world, contributing significantly to environmental degradation. Circular fashion (repairing, recycling, and upcycling clothes) is one of the steps that everyone can take to minimize the impact of textiles waste.
A lot of people have clothes or shoes in their closet that they don’t wear anymore but also don’t wanna discard because of different reasons. So… they can enhance them through customization and wear them again.
What challenges have you faced in making upcycled art, and how have these challenges shaped your process?
There’s no big challenges except from, sometimes the different textures of the items. I find upcycling so satisfying and rewarding. We used to do this even back in University where we take old clothes and reimagined full collections that eventually will be presented on the catwalk.
How do you balance the aesthetic value of your pieces with the environmental message they often carry?
I’m using the best paints and maybe additional accessories to make sure the result is eye-pleasant and wearable.
Digital vs. Traditional Art
How do you see digital art complementing or challenging the traditions of handmade, tactile art?
I love digital art. It’s super versatile. From one artwork made digitally you can change up some elements and come up with a entire collection.
Do you approach digital art with the same emotional investment as traditional mediums? Why or why not?
Yes. For both you need planning and documentation. Sometimes digital medium it’s easier because can be used anywhere. Is not so comfortable to carry canvases and paints everywhere. But traditional medium is always more rewarding and personal. It’s something you can touch and feel.
In an increasingly digital world, where do you think the future of traditional art lies?
Traditional art will always be there. Everything that can be touched and felt deeper will have immense value. It’s more experimental for sure.
Brand Collaborations
How do you navigate the creative tension between maintaining your artistic voice and meeting a brand’s vision during collaborations?
Is not easy but is not hard either. I find these collaborations so mentally rewarding. I learn so much. Often times is the brand’s final word but i had collabs with minimal changes.
I love connecting with customers through engaging live activations for iconic brands like Converse, Puma, Shoevenir, Rituals, Birkenstock, and Crocs, by creating personalized art experiences in real-time
What makes a brand collaboration meaningful to you, beyond its commercial aspect?
The learning process. As an artist i have to put myself in their customers shoes, not only mine. There’s the real satisfaction – when I have a enough commercial result that can gather enough buyers.
Are there any dream brands or causes you aspire to collaborate with, and why?
Yes. I would love to collaborate with a high-end luxury accessories brand. Lots of names in my mind.
For more information, please follow @gingerartsy.
