{"id":941,"date":"2025-12-11T19:09:39","date_gmt":"2025-12-11T19:09:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.distinctmag.com\/?p=941"},"modified":"2026-06-30T01:10:43","modified_gmt":"2026-06-30T01:10:43","slug":"best-of-local-mexican-artisans","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.distinctmag.com\/index.php\/best-of-local-mexican-artisans\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best of Local Mexican Artisans\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-b5a81c8c wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30);padding-bottom:0;padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--30)\" data-block-type=\"core\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-heading stk-block-heading stk-block-heading--v2 stk-block stk-a59533b\" id=\"by-scott-bay\" data-block-id=\"a59533b\"><style>.stk-a59533b {margin-bottom:var(--stk--preset--spacing--none, 0px) !important;}<\/style><h6 class=\"stk-block-heading__text\">By Scott Bay<\/h6><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-spacer stk-block-spacer stk--no-padding stk-block stk-7497507\" data-block-id=\"7497507\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-columns stk-block-columns stk-block stk-3542cea\" data-block-id=\"3542cea\"><style>.stk-3542cea-column{--stk-column-gap:var(--stk--preset--spacing--80, 5.06rem) !important;}@media screen and (max-width:999px){.stk-3542cea-column{--stk-column-gap:var(--stk--preset--spacing--40, 1rem) !important;}}<\/style><div class=\"stk-row stk-inner-blocks stk-block-content stk-content-align stk-3542cea-column\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-31fc602\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"31fc602\"><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-31fc602-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-31fc602-inner-blocks\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ee154e9e wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0\" data-block-type=\"core\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-heading stk-block-heading stk-block-heading--v2 stk-block stk-49e90fd\" id=\"kauani\" data-block-id=\"49e90fd\"><style>.stk-49e90fd {margin-bottom:var(--stk--preset--spacing--none, 0px) !important;}<\/style><h6 class=\"stk-block-heading__text\">Kauani<\/h6><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-text stk-block-text stk-block stk-72652ec\" data-block-id=\"72652ec\"><p class=\"stk-block-text__text\">Textile designer&nbsp;In\u00e9s Quezada&nbsp;has always looked to the land for guidance. The shifting tones of desert soil, the silhouettes of cacti against twilight\u2014each biological element guides the Mexico City\u2013based artist\u2019s visual and emotional palette. Together with&nbsp;Madrid-based designer In\u00e9s Llasera, she founded&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/kauani.studio\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kauani<\/a> (meaning&nbsp;\u201cto bloom\u201d&nbsp;in Nahuatl), a studio devoted to translating the natural world into woven form. Their practice sits at the intersection of design, ecology, and cultural heritage, merging botanical inspiration with contemporary craft.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ee154e9e wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0\" data-block-type=\"core\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-text stk-block-text stk-block stk-f88c11d\" data-block-id=\"f88c11d\"><p class=\"stk-block-text__text\">Kauani\u2019s latest collection,&nbsp;Noches \u00c1ridas&nbsp;(Spanish for \u201carid nights\u201d), emerges from an in-depth study of xerophytic plants, species that thrive in the dry, harsh landscapes of the Americas. \u201cCacti symbolize resilience,\u201d Quezada says. \u201cAdapted to extreme environments, they endure long droughts and high temperatures and develop ingenious<br>survival strategies.\u201d<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ee154e9e wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0\" data-block-type=\"core\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-text stk-block-text stk-block stk-91bce4c\" data-block-id=\"91bce4c\"><p class=\"stk-block-text__text\">Blending&nbsp;traditional handcraft&nbsp;with&nbsp;modern technology, Quezada and Llasera reimagine those survival forms in light. Their pendants and table lamps swell like desert blooms after rain\u2014sculptural, luminous, and full of quiet strength. \u201cThrough&nbsp;Noches \u00c1ridas,&nbsp;we\u2019re empowered by the morphological expressions of this botanical family,\u201d Quezada says. In their glowing contours, each piece is a reminder that beauty and endurance can flourish, even in the unlikeliest places. kauani.studio<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-adcbdc4\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"adcbdc4\"><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-adcbdc4-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-adcbdc4-inner-blocks\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-image stk-block-image stk-block stk-23e82f4\" data-block-id=\"23e82f4\"><style>.stk-23e82f4 .stk-img-wrapper{aspect-ratio:1\/1 !important;height:auto !important;}@media screen and (max-width:999px){.stk-23e82f4 .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}@media screen and (max-width:689px){.stk-23e82f4 .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}<\/style><figure><span class=\"stk-img-wrapper stk-image--shape-stretch\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"stk-img wp-image-1398\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19170338\/4990_FULL-scaled.jpg\" width=\"2048\" height=\"2560\" alt=\"A woven pendant light\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19170338\/4990_FULL-scaled.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19170338\/4990_FULL-240x300.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19170338\/4990_FULL-819x1024.jpg 819w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19170338\/4990_FULL-768x960.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19170338\/4990_FULL-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19170338\/4990_FULL-1638x2048.jpg 1638w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><\/span><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-image stk-block-image stk-block stk-2e90dab\" data-block-id=\"2e90dab\"><style>.stk-2e90dab .stk-img-wrapper{aspect-ratio:1\/1 !important;width:100% !important;height:574px !important;}<\/style><figure><span class=\"stk-img-wrapper stk-image--shape-stretch\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"stk-img wp-image-1258\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/16162456\/1_Kauani_Retrato_Foto_por_Silvia_Coca-1-e1765902546182.jpg\" width=\"772\" height=\"1114\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/16162456\/1_Kauani_Retrato_Foto_por_Silvia_Coca-1-e1765902546182.jpg 772w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/16162456\/1_Kauani_Retrato_Foto_por_Silvia_Coca-1-e1765902546182-208x300.jpg 208w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/16162456\/1_Kauani_Retrato_Foto_por_Silvia_Coca-1-e1765902546182-710x1024.jpg 710w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/16162456\/1_Kauani_Retrato_Foto_por_Silvia_Coca-1-e1765902546182-768x1108.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 772px) 100vw, 772px\" \/><\/span><figcaption class=\"stk-img-figcaption\">In\u00e9s Quezada and In\u00e9s Llasera of the Mexico City\u2013based design studio Kauani translate plants and other natural elements into woven table lamps and pendant lighting.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-spacer stk-block-spacer stk--no-padding stk-block stk-d5fddd5\" data-block-id=\"d5fddd5\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-columns alignfull stk-block-columns stk-block stk-bc0781d\" data-block-id=\"bc0781d\"><style>.stk-bc0781d .stk--block-align-bc0781d{align-items:center !important;}.stk-bc0781d-column{--stk-column-gap:var(--stk--preset--spacing--50, 1.5rem) !important;}@media screen and (max-width:999px){.stk-bc0781d-column{--stk-column-gap:var(--stk--preset--spacing--40, 1rem) !important;}}<\/style><div class=\"stk-row stk-inner-blocks has-text-align-center stk--block-align-bc0781d stk-block-content stk-content-align stk-bc0781d-column alignfull\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-d60e621\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"d60e621\"><style>.stk-d60e621-container{margin-top:var(--stk--preset--spacing--none, 0px) !important;margin-right:var(--stk--preset--spacing--none, 0px) !important;margin-bottom:var(--stk--preset--spacing--none, 0px) !important;margin-left:var(--stk--preset--spacing--none, 0px) !important;}@media screen and (min-width:690px){.stk-d60e621 {flex:var(--stk-flex-grow, 1) 1 calc(50% - var(--stk-column-gap, 0px) * 1 \/ 2 ) !important;}}@media screen and (min-width:690px) and (max-width:999px){.stk-d60e621 {flex:var(--stk-flex-grow, 1) 1 calc(100% - var(--stk-column-gap, 0px) * 0 \/ 1 ) !important;}}<\/style><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-d60e621-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-d60e621-inner-blocks\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-image stk-block-image stk-block stk-763e260\" data-block-id=\"763e260\"><style>.stk-763e260 .stk-img-figcaption{text-align:right !important;}.stk-763e260 .stk-img-wrapper{aspect-ratio:3\/4 !important;height:auto !important;}@media screen and (max-width:999px){.stk-763e260 .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}@media screen and (max-width:689px){.stk-763e260 .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}<\/style><figure><span class=\"stk-img-wrapper stk-image--shape-stretch\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"stk-img wp-image-1111\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050515\/CarlaFernandez%E2%80%94Liliana-Jemal.jpg\" width=\"1272\" height=\"1920\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050515\/CarlaFernandez%E2%80%94Liliana-Jemal.jpg 1272w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050515\/CarlaFernandez%E2%80%94Liliana-Jemal-199x300.jpg 199w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050515\/CarlaFernandez%E2%80%94Liliana-Jemal-678x1024.jpg 678w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050515\/CarlaFernandez%E2%80%94Liliana-Jemal-768x1159.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050515\/CarlaFernandez%E2%80%94Liliana-Jemal-1018x1536.jpg 1018w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1272px) 100vw, 1272px\" \/><\/span><figcaption class=\"stk-img-figcaption\">Fashion designer Carla Fern\u00e1ndez at her Mexico City atelier<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-c0ac178\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"c0ac178\"><style>.stk-c0ac178-container{margin-top:var(--stk--preset--spacing--70, 3.38rem) !important;margin-right:var(--stk--preset--spacing--70, 3.38rem) !important;margin-bottom:var(--stk--preset--spacing--70, 3.38rem) !important;margin-left:var(--stk--preset--spacing--70, 3.38rem) !important;max-width:1500px !important;min-width:auto !important;}@media screen and (min-width:690px){.stk-c0ac178 {flex:var(--stk-flex-grow, 1) 1 calc(50% - var(--stk-column-gap, 0px) * 1 \/ 2 ) !important;}}@media screen and (min-width:690px) and (max-width:999px){.stk-c0ac178 {flex:var(--stk-flex-grow, 1) 1 calc(100% - var(--stk-column-gap, 0px) * 0 \/ 1 ) !important;}}<\/style><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-c0ac178-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-c0ac178-inner-blocks\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-5af4282f wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0\" data-block-type=\"core\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-heading stk-block-heading stk-block-heading--v2 stk-block stk-b695071\" id=\"carla-fernandez\" data-block-id=\"b695071\"><style>.stk-b695071 {margin-bottom:var(--stk--preset--spacing--none, 0px) !important;}<\/style><h6 class=\"stk-block-heading__text\">Carla Fern\u00e1ndez<\/h6><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-text stk-block-text stk-block stk-66bc854\" data-block-id=\"66bc854\"><style>.stk-66bc854 {margin-bottom:0px !important;}<\/style><p class=\"stk-block-text__text has-text-align-left\">For <a href=\"https:\/\/en.carlafernandez.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Carla Fern\u00e1ndez,<\/a> fashion is not ephemeral, and trends are anathema to a greater mission. Expressed through her eponymous label, that mission begins with heritage: Fern\u00e1ndez works with more than 200 artisans across Mexico, including Indigenous cooperatives in Quintana Roo and Oaxaca, to merge centuries-old Mayan and Mixtec textile techniques with contemporary silhouettes. What emerges is not just design but living culture. \u201cTradition is not static,\u201d the Mexico City\u2013based designer says. \u201cIt\u2019s always evolving.\u201d<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-text stk-block-text stk-block stk-4937cce\" data-block-id=\"4937cce\"><p class=\"stk-block-text__text has-text-align-left\">Educated as a historian, Fern\u00e1ndez uses her textiles as a means for storytelling. For instance, her 2023 collection, Work Clothes, demonstrates the pride her people have long taken in their work, donning their most embellished and intricate clothing for a day<br>of labor. \u201cA lady who is cooking for you in a market will use her best apron with the most delicate cross-stitch to serve you a mole or a taco at the market,\u201d she says. \u201cA whole country and a whole identity show in this decision to use your best dress for work.\u201d For the designer, each stitch sewn is a celebration of resilience\u2014an ethos also expressed in her most recent collection, Diva, which, inspired by musical icons Juan Gabriel, Elvis, David Bowie, and Cher, explores fashion as a tool for freedom and radical self-expression. <a href=\"https:\/\/en.carlafernandez.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">en.carlafernandez.com<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-spacer stk-block-spacer stk--no-padding stk-block stk-9330ccb\" data-block-id=\"9330ccb\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-columns alignfull stk-block-columns stk-block stk-9749d01\" data-block-id=\"9749d01\"><div class=\"stk-row stk-inner-blocks stk-block-content stk-content-align stk-9749d01-column alignfull\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-1d3ec1a\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"1d3ec1a\"><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-1d3ec1a-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-1d3ec1a-inner-blocks\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\" data-block-type=\"core\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15055913\/Norma-Luisa-Ortiz-Perez-2-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1118\" style=\"aspect-ratio:2\/3;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15055913\/Norma-Luisa-Ortiz-Perez-2-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15055913\/Norma-Luisa-Ortiz-Perez-2-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15055913\/Norma-Luisa-Ortiz-Perez-2-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15055913\/Norma-Luisa-Ortiz-Perez-2-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15055913\/Norma-Luisa-Ortiz-Perez-2.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-033aa67\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"033aa67\"><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-033aa67-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-033aa67-inner-blocks\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\" data-block-type=\"core\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15055731\/AHOP8647--683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1117\" style=\"aspect-ratio:2\/3;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15055731\/AHOP8647--683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15055731\/AHOP8647--200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15055731\/AHOP8647--768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15055731\/AHOP8647--1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15055731\/AHOP8647-.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-ade9cd3\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"ade9cd3\"><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-ade9cd3-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-ade9cd3-inner-blocks\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\" data-block-type=\"core\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1104\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15173021\/AHOP9367-1.jpg\" alt=\"A man wearing a Calra Fernandez design\" class=\"wp-image-1828\" style=\"aspect-ratio:2\/3;object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15173021\/AHOP9367-1.jpg 1104w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15173021\/AHOP9367-1-276x300.jpg 276w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15173021\/AHOP9367-1-768x835.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15173021\/AHOP9367-1-942x1024.jpg 942w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1104px) 100vw, 1104px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-spacer stk-block-spacer stk--no-padding stk-block stk-f528982\" data-block-id=\"f528982\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-columns stk-block-columns stk-block stk-1861bef\" data-block-id=\"1861bef\"><style>.stk-1861bef-column{--stk-column-gap:var(--stk--preset--spacing--80, 5.06rem) !important;}@media screen and (max-width:999px){.stk-1861bef-column{--stk-column-gap:var(--stk--preset--spacing--40, 1rem) !important;}}<\/style><div class=\"stk-row stk-inner-blocks stk-block-content stk-content-align stk-1861bef-column\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-8eae93d\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"8eae93d\"><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-8eae93d-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-8eae93d-inner-blocks\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ee154e9e wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0\" data-block-type=\"core\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-heading stk-block-heading stk-block-heading--v2 stk-block stk-d2a2742\" id=\"aaron-changpo\" data-block-id=\"d2a2742\"><style>.stk-d2a2742 {margin-bottom:var(--stk--preset--spacing--none, 0px) !important;}<\/style><h6 class=\"stk-block-heading__text\">Aaron Changpo<\/h6><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-text stk-block-text stk-block stk-7105c47\" data-block-id=\"7105c47\"><p class=\"stk-block-text__text\">As a fourth-generation jeweler, Aaron Changpo carries centuries of silversmith tradition in his blood\u2014and through his two contemporary brands: <a href=\"https:\/\/varonofficial.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Varon<\/a>, founded in 2012, is bold and experimental, while <a href=\"https:\/\/studio-vrn.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Vrn<\/a>, launched in 2018, focuses on ceremonial high-jewelry pieces.<br>\u201cBoth share the same philosophy,\u201d the designer says: \u201cthe celebration of materials and permanence.\u201d<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-image stk-block-image stk-block stk-1ca44f2\" data-block-id=\"1ca44f2\"><style>.stk-1ca44f2 .stk-img-wrapper{aspect-ratio:3\/4 !important;height:auto !important;}@media screen and (max-width:999px){.stk-1ca44f2 .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}@media screen and (max-width:689px){.stk-1ca44f2 .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}<\/style><figure><span class=\"stk-img-wrapper stk-image--shape-stretch\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"stk-img wp-image-1119\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060114\/vrn_0573.jpg\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1920\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060114\/vrn_0573.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060114\/vrn_0573-240x300.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060114\/vrn_0573-819x1024.jpg 819w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060114\/vrn_0573-768x960.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060114\/vrn_0573-1229x1536.jpg 1229w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1536px) 100vw, 1536px\" \/><\/span><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-1f37bd8\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"1f37bd8\"><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-1f37bd8-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-1f37bd8-inner-blocks\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-image stk-block-image stk-block stk-5a4f26d\" data-block-id=\"5a4f26d\"><style>.stk-5a4f26d .stk-img-wrapper{aspect-ratio:1\/1 !important;height:auto !important;}@media screen and (max-width:999px){.stk-5a4f26d .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}@media screen and (max-width:689px){.stk-5a4f26d .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}<\/style><figure><span class=\"stk-img-wrapper stk-image--shape-stretch\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"stk-img wp-image-1110\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050513\/aaron06-1.jpg\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1920\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050513\/aaron06-1.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050513\/aaron06-1-240x300.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050513\/aaron06-1-819x1024.jpg 819w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050513\/aaron06-1-768x960.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050513\/aaron06-1-1229x1536.jpg 1229w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1536px) 100vw, 1536px\" \/><\/span><figcaption class=\"stk-img-figcaption\">At his studios, Varon and Vrn, Aaron Changpo works with master artisans to handcraft delicate, contemporary, and high-jewelry pieces ranging from 14k gold keshi Japanese pearl earrings to sculptural signet rings.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ee154e9e wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0\" data-block-type=\"core\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-text stk-block-text stk-block stk-da70c57\" data-block-id=\"da70c57\"><style>.stk-da70c57 {margin-bottom:12px !important;}<\/style><p class=\"stk-block-text__text\">Each piece, from pearl-encrusted cuffs to sculptural signet rings, is a handcrafted collaboration between Changpo and master artisans, some of whom have worked alongside his family\u2019s Mexico City atelier for more than 75 years. His design process is \u201cslow and deeply personal,\u201d and always a reflection of his heritage. \u201cThere\u2019s an ancestral connection between metal, stone, and body adornment that I try to honor,\u201d he says. \u201cEach piece is a quiet tribute to that legacy, crafted for a global audience.\u201d<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p data-block-type=\"core\">In Changpo\u2019s hands, silver and gold are more than materials. When crafted, they become a form of storytelling. He sees each object as a dialogue between himself, the material, and the wearer. Beyond design, he is invested in sustaining the craft itself, mentoring young artisans and preserving techniques passed down through generations. <a href=\"http:\/\/studio-vrn.com; varonofficial.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">studio-vrn.com; varonofficial.com<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-spacer stk-block-spacer stk--no-padding stk-block stk-7c9035d\" data-block-id=\"7c9035d\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-columns alignfull stk-block-columns stk-block stk-a981ee6 stk-block-background\" data-block-id=\"a981ee6\"><style>.stk-a981ee6 {background-color:var(--theme-palette-color-2, #141414) !important;}.stk-a981ee6:before{background-color:var(--theme-palette-color-2, #141414) !important;}.stk-a981ee6-column{--stk-columns-spacing:var(--stk--preset--spacing--60, 2.25rem) !important;}<\/style><div class=\"stk-row stk-inner-blocks stk-block-content stk-content-align stk-a981ee6-column alignfull\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-e9f7096\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"e9f7096\"><style>@media screen and (min-width:690px){.stk-e9f7096 {flex:var(--stk-flex-grow, 1) 1 calc(40% - var(--stk-column-gap, 0px) * 1 \/ 2 ) !important;}}<\/style><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-e9f7096-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-e9f7096-inner-blocks\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-image stk-block-image stk-block stk-ba42ac1\" data-block-id=\"ba42ac1\"><figure><span class=\"stk-img-wrapper stk-image--shape-stretch\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"stk-img wp-image-1400\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19171208\/vrn_0221.jpg\" width=\"1922\" height=\"2402\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19171208\/vrn_0221.jpg 1922w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19171208\/vrn_0221-240x300.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19171208\/vrn_0221-819x1024.jpg 819w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19171208\/vrn_0221-768x960.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19171208\/vrn_0221-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19171208\/vrn_0221-1639x2048.jpg 1639w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1922px) 100vw, 1922px\" \/><\/span><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-234ac24\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"234ac24\"><style>@media screen and (min-width:690px){.stk-234ac24 {flex:var(--stk-flex-grow, 1) 1 calc(60% - var(--stk-column-gap, 0px) * 1 \/ 2 ) !important;}}<\/style><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-234ac24-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-234ac24-inner-blocks\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-image stk-block-image stk-block stk-6123431\" data-block-id=\"6123431\"><figure><span class=\"stk-img-wrapper stk-image--shape-stretch\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"stk-img wp-image-1401\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19171230\/vrn_0823-scaled.jpg\" width=\"2048\" height=\"2560\" alt=\"A woman wearing jewelry\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19171230\/vrn_0823-scaled.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19171230\/vrn_0823-240x300.jpg 240w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19171230\/vrn_0823-819x1024.jpg 819w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19171230\/vrn_0823-768x960.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19171230\/vrn_0823-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19171230\/vrn_0823-1638x2048.jpg 1638w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><\/span><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-spacer stk-block-spacer stk--no-padding stk-block stk-c9378de\" data-block-id=\"c9378de\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-columns stk-block-columns stk-block stk-d71f9a3\" data-block-id=\"d71f9a3\"><style>.stk-d71f9a3-column{--stk-column-gap:var(--stk--preset--spacing--80, 5.06rem) !important;}@media screen and (max-width:999px){.stk-d71f9a3-column{--stk-column-gap:var(--stk--preset--spacing--40, 1rem) !important;}}<\/style><div class=\"stk-row stk-inner-blocks stk-block-content stk-content-align stk-d71f9a3-column\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-8d71dfe\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"8d71dfe\"><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-8d71dfe-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-8d71dfe-inner-blocks\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ee154e9e wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0\" data-block-type=\"core\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-heading stk-block-heading stk-block-heading--v2 stk-block stk-7315e43\" id=\"ana-lopez\" data-block-id=\"7315e43\"><style>.stk-7315e43 {margin-bottom:var(--stk--preset--spacing--none, 0px) !important;}<\/style><h6 class=\"stk-block-heading__text\">Ana L\u00f3pez<\/h6><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-text stk-block-text stk-block stk-11b50fd\" data-block-id=\"11b50fd\"><p class=\"stk-block-text__text\">In the mountains of Jalisco, Ana L\u00f3pez distills more than agave\u2014she distills heritage. Her raicilla brand, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.agave.guru\/la-reina\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">La Reina<\/a>, is both a tribute to her homeland and a celebration of her native Mexican region.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p data-block-type=\"core\">Raicilla is made from the maximiliana, known locally as the \u201cqueen of agaves,\u201d a species of agave that grows among pine trees, thriving only where sunlight filters gently through the forest canopy. \u201cWe call them agaves amigos del bosque\u2014agaves that live in harmony with the forest,\u201d L\u00f3pez says. \u201cWhat this land gives cannot be replicated elsewhere.\u201d In that symbiosis between plant and mountain, she sees the essence of Jalisco itself: adaptable, generous, and deeply rooted in Indigenous tradition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p data-block-type=\"core\"><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-image stk-block-image stk-block stk-53d4c55\" data-block-id=\"53d4c55\"><style>.stk-53d4c55 .stk-img-wrapper{aspect-ratio:1\/1 !important;height:auto !important;}@media screen and (max-width:999px){.stk-53d4c55 .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}@media screen and (max-width:689px){.stk-53d4c55 .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}<\/style><figure><span class=\"stk-img-wrapper stk-image--shape-stretch\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"stk-img wp-image-1121\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060400\/maximiliana-e1765778672123.jpg\" width=\"1523\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060400\/maximiliana-e1765778672123.jpg 1523w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060400\/maximiliana-e1765778672123-300x252.jpg 300w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060400\/maximiliana-e1765778672123-1024x861.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060400\/maximiliana-e1765778672123-768x645.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1523px) 100vw, 1523px\" \/><\/span><figcaption class=\"stk-img-figcaption\">Every detail of La Reina raicilla honors Mexican heritage and craft, from the ancestral production methods used to distill the spirit without electricity to the bottles forged by local artists, such as Tierra \u00c1mbar, in Tonal\u00e1, Jalisco.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-79dd354\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"79dd354\"><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-79dd354-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-79dd354-inner-blocks\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-image stk-block-image stk-block stk-a59295b\" data-block-id=\"a59295b\"><style>.stk-a59295b .stk-img-wrapper{aspect-ratio:1\/1 !important;height:auto !important;}@media screen and (max-width:999px){.stk-a59295b .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}@media screen and (max-width:689px){.stk-a59295b .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}<\/style><figure><span class=\"stk-img-wrapper stk-image--shape-stretch\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"stk-img wp-image-1112\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050517\/anayjuan.jpg\" width=\"1285\" height=\"1920\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050517\/anayjuan.jpg 1285w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050517\/anayjuan-201x300.jpg 201w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050517\/anayjuan-685x1024.jpg 685w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050517\/anayjuan-768x1148.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050517\/anayjuan-1028x1536.jpg 1028w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1285px) 100vw, 1285px\" \/><\/span><figcaption class=\"stk-img-figcaption\"> La Reina co-founders Ana L\u00f3pez and Juan Pablo Mercado.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ee154e9e wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0\" data-block-type=\"core\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-text stk-block-text stk-block stk-79cf28f\" data-block-id=\"79cf28f\"><p class=\"stk-block-text__text\">L\u00f3pez, along with her partner, Juan Pablo Mercado, honor those roots by preserving ancestral production methods, crafting every batch by hand and without the use of electricity. While the spirit of La Reina is unadulterated by modernity, the bottles in which her raicilla comes are modern creations, forged with local artists, who craft each glass bottle by hand. Drinking vessels and labels are another chance to collaborate with artisans, such as Jalisco\u2019s Tierra \u00c1mbar, who recently created a limited-edition ceramic bottle for L\u00f3pez. At its heart, every element is intended to celebrate the spirit of Jalisco.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ee154e9e wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0\" data-block-type=\"core\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-text stk-block-text stk-block stk-f17b1ae\" data-block-id=\"f17b1ae\"><p class=\"stk-block-text__text\">For L\u00f3pez, La Reina is an opportunity to introduce the world to raicilla, a spirit she believes has its own soul and purpose, independent of its better-known agave-made counterparts, tequila and mezcal. \u201cTequila is euphoric, a party spirit; mezcal is mystical; raicilla opens creativity,\u201d she says. Each distillation carries something profound. \u201cThe Maximiliana, transformed into raicilla, reminds us that life is a transformation guided by patience, fire, and love.\u201d <a href=\"http:\/\/drinklareina.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">drinklareina.com<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignfull size-large\" data-block-type=\"core\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19172904\/horno-heat-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Distilling spirits by fire\" class=\"wp-image-1402\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19172904\/horno-heat-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19172904\/horno-heat-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19172904\/horno-heat-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19172904\/horno-heat-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/19172904\/horno-heat-2048x1365.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-spacer stk-block-spacer stk--no-padding stk-block stk-53155b1\" data-block-id=\"53155b1\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-columns stk-block-columns stk-block stk-1952316\" data-block-id=\"1952316\"><style>.stk-1952316-column{--stk-column-gap:var(--stk--preset--spacing--80, 5.06rem) !important;}@media screen and (max-width:999px){.stk-1952316-column{--stk-column-gap:var(--stk--preset--spacing--40, 1rem) !important;}}<\/style><div class=\"stk-row stk-inner-blocks stk-block-content stk-content-align stk-1952316-column\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-b913bf6\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"b913bf6\"><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-b913bf6-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-b913bf6-inner-blocks\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-ee154e9e wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\" style=\"margin-top:0;margin-bottom:0;padding-top:0;padding-bottom:0\" data-block-type=\"core\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-heading stk-block-heading stk-block-heading--v2 stk-block stk-0097cac\" id=\"ernesto-azcarate\" data-block-id=\"0097cac\"><style>.stk-0097cac {margin-bottom:var(--stk--preset--spacing--none, 0px) !important;}<\/style><h6 class=\"stk-block-heading__text\">Ernesto Azc\u00e1rate<\/h6><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-text stk-block-text stk-block stk-27a7157\" data-block-id=\"27a7157\"><style>.stk-27a7157 {margin-bottom:11px !important;}<\/style><p class=\"stk-block-text__text\">For Mexico City\u2013based furniture designer&nbsp;Ernesto Azc\u00e1rate, every piece comes to life through an abundance of curiosity. \u201cCreation begins with surprise,\u201d he says, \u201ca surprise that can emerge through the process itself.\u201d Trained as an architect and deeply influenced by his surroundings, Azc\u00e1rate taps equally into craft and contemplation to<br>make his sculptural tables, chairs, and built objects.<\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-text stk-block-text stk-block stk-b993b3b\" data-block-id=\"b993b3b\"><p class=\"stk-block-text__text\">Mexico City\u2019s dual nature\u2014its ancient foundations and modern pulse\u2014is a special inspiration, whether the designer is working in solid wood or recinto volc\u00e1nico, a porous volcanic stone native to the region. Looking to his native city as his muse, he translates physical landscapes into beautiful objects. \u201cRecinto volc\u00e1nico shapes much of the city\u2019s identity,\u201d he says. \u201cYou see it in streets, facades, and ancient ruins. It carries a memory of the city\u2019s origin, and I like to bring that presence into my pieces.\u201d<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-image stk-block-image stk-block stk-cda453a\" data-block-id=\"cda453a\"><style>.stk-cda453a .stk-img-wrapper{aspect-ratio:1\/1 !important;height:auto !important;}@media screen and (max-width:999px){.stk-cda453a .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}@media screen and (max-width:689px){.stk-cda453a .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}<\/style><figure><span class=\"stk-img-wrapper stk-image--shape-stretch\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"stk-img wp-image-1122\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060640\/Ernest_02_25-1.jpeg\" width=\"1281\" height=\"1920\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060640\/Ernest_02_25-1.jpeg 1281w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060640\/Ernest_02_25-1-200x300.jpeg 200w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060640\/Ernest_02_25-1-683x1024.jpeg 683w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060640\/Ernest_02_25-1-768x1151.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15060640\/Ernest_02_25-1-1025x1536.jpeg 1025w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1281px) 100vw, 1281px\" \/><\/span><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-column stk-block-column stk-column stk-block stk-be34f33\" data-v=\"4\" data-block-id=\"be34f33\"><div class=\"stk-column-wrapper stk-block-column__content stk-container stk-be34f33-container stk--no-background stk--no-padding\"><div class=\"stk-block-content stk-inner-blocks stk-be34f33-inner-blocks\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-image stk-block-image stk-block stk-482a3a4\" data-block-id=\"482a3a4\"><style>.stk-482a3a4 .stk-img-wrapper{aspect-ratio:3\/4 !important;height:auto !important;}@media screen and (max-width:999px){.stk-482a3a4 .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}@media screen and (max-width:689px){.stk-482a3a4 .stk-img-wrapper{height:auto !important;}}<\/style><figure><span class=\"stk-img-wrapper stk-image--shape-stretch\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"stk-img wp-image-1113\" src=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050521\/ernesto.jpg\" width=\"1280\" height=\"1920\" srcset=\"https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050521\/ernesto.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050521\/ernesto-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050521\/ernesto-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050521\/ernesto-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/upload.distinctmag.com\/uploads\/2025\/12\/15050521\/ernesto-1024x1536.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><\/span><figcaption class=\"stk-img-figcaption\">In his Mexico City workshop, furniture designer Ernesto Azc\u00e1rate works with natural materials to craft fluid yet functional pieces.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-text stk-block-text stk-block stk-25d5e9e\" data-block-id=\"25d5e9e\"><p class=\"stk-block-text__text\">Azc\u00e1rate\u2019s practice isn\u2019t about literal representation, but resonance. Wood and stone appear as quiet gestures\u2014textures in dialogue, balancing fragility and permanence. After two decades of woodworking, Azc\u00e1rate says that&nbsp;limiting his tools and materials&nbsp;has paradoxically expanded his freedom. The constraint, he says, deepens his relationship with the medium and heightens his sense of expression. The results lie somewhere between&nbsp;architecture and poetry: functional forms imbued with philosophy. \u201cCreation is the search for something that can give meaning to life,\u201d he says, \u201csomething that resonates beyond intention.\u201d<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-stackable-spacer stk-block-spacer stk--no-padding stk-block stk-eee308b\" data-block-id=\"eee308b\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Bound by heritage and place, a new generation of Mexican makers is turning to the past to shape their future.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":942,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[16],"tags":[33],"class_list":["post-941","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lifestyle","tag-winter-spring-26"],"blocksy_meta":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This 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