Bio

Mariana Espinosa is a Latin-American artist, designer, and storyteller. As a Fine Art graduate from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, with a focus in fashion and costume design, her artwork explores the nuances of Latin-American identity and the intersection between memory and ancestry. Her garments and textiles draw influence from pre-hispanic aesthetics and practices, whilst simultaneously giving them a contemporary twist. Her work has been exhibited in New York Fashion Week and Paris, earning recognition from publications like The Daily Front Row, Business of Fashion, The Cut, Fashion United, WWD, Salut Les Garçon, Libération, JT Drapper Fashion Week, and MR Magazine.

Artist Statement

My work reflects my journey as a Mexican-American woman, delving into themes of nostalgia, identity, and prejudice. My Latin family background significantly influences my work, along with my studies in pre-hispanic aesthetics and narratives. With an interdisciplinary background in accessory design, performance, illustration, and textiles, I merge my creative disciplines to craft immersive worlds and compelling stories. Embracing sustainability in my garment work, I utilize slow traditional techniques such as natural dyeing, weaving, and macrame. My designs combine the past with futuristic aesthetics to create pieces that merge familiarity with innovation.