We are back with round four of our Studio Tour and this time we took it close to our hearts with Miami Based textile artists duo Alex and Yadis from @yerbamaladesigns. With over 6 years of persistent innovative work they are proof of how their ever evolving creations have set the tone as-well as served of great inspiration to many in the Macrame / Fiber Art Community.
1. TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOU AND HOW YERBAMALADEISGNS BEGAN AND WHAT DOES YOUR BUSINESS NAME MEAN?
Yerbamala is a collaborative studio founded by Alexis Oliva and Yanira Lopez that explores textile art and object design. We specialize in creating custom large scale fiber art pieces and installations for hospitality and commercial spaces.
We met more than twenty years ago, while being students at Havana University in Cuba. Shortly after graduation, we migrated to the United States together and joined the 9 - 5 corporate world. But we were always dreaming to have a job that would allow us to create together. So in 2015 we officially launched Yerbamala Designs.
Yerbamala means “weeds” in Spanish, as in the wild plants that grow everywhere. Its a name that celebrates our connection with the earth, our roots and culture. The resilience found in nature, especially weeds, has always inspired us, not only to seek strength and be resourceful, but to also find beauty and inspiration in unexpected places.
2. HOW MUCH IMPORTANCE DO YOU GIVE TO THE QUALITY OF THE FIBERS YOU USE IN YOUR CREATIONS.
Using high quality, yet environmentally sustainable materials has always been a must for our brand. Partnering with an environmentally conscious company like GANXXET that shared our values and concern for the planet (from the early days of both our brands) was the perfect match.
3. HOW DO YOU THINK YOUR WORK DESCRIBES YOU AS A FIBER ARTIST?
Our work focus is continuously changing and evolving, but if we had to think of a constant that describes our work it will probably be the process of editing and letting go of any adornments or non-essential element/components when creating a piece. It's a process that we keep refining overtime.
4. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR LAST THREE WORKING ELEMENTS YOU’VE USED IN YOUR LAST WORK?
That's an easy one! We always gravitate towards natural elements/materials, like plant based fibers (we don't use animal fibers) Luckily for us, GANXXET has an amazing selection of plant based materials.
5. GIVE ME THREE WORDS YOU LIVE BY
Make-It-Happen
6. ZODIAC SIGN.
Alex is a Virgo, Yadi is a Gemini
7. WHAT HAS BEEN AN EXPERIENCE THAT HAS MADE YOU GROW AS A FIBER ARTIST.
Large scale pieces. Combining logistics with creative design solutions that Large Scale installation Projects require is an art form in itself. So much work and panning goes behind the scenes! These are always exciting and challenging experiences that keep on pushing the limits of our creativity.
8. PLAGIARISM, TELL ME YOUR THOUGHTS ON IT.
Contrary to popular belief, Plagiarism its NEVER a compliment to the artist/designer.
9. DOES TRAVELING EXPERIENCES HAVE CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR CREATIVITY, IF SO, WHICH COUNTRY HAS HAD THE MOST IMPACT?
Mexico and Spain are always so incredibly inspiring! But Cuba is top of our list (though we might be biased!) The eclecticism found in Havana's architecture and its Caribbean flavors, colors and textures definitely make our beloved hometown a continuos source of inspiration in our work.
10. TELL ME YOUR TOP 5 FAVORITE COLORS TO WORK WITH (FROM GANXXET IF USED).
GANXXET has the most amazing colors! Forrest Green, Ocher and Denim are some of our all time favorites. Dying to try Oregano and Bay Leaf next!
