Vania Ruiz
Viña del Mar, Chile
Curriculum Vitae
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@casakiro
Website
Artist Statement
Jewelry serves as a form of communication, not just with others but also with oneself. When we choose them, we envision who we want to be, empowering them in the process. My pieces aim to convey joy, lightness, and daring through butterflies: universal symbols of transformation, growth, and strength. For this exhibition, I've chosen to present two different techniques: hand-painted earrings layered with epoxy resin and sterling silver, inspired by the patterns and colors of various butterfly species worldwide. Additionally, fabric bracelets and a necklace employ sublimation techniques for image transfer. I fold and fix the fabric at certain points, transforming the flat surface into volumetric patterns with unexpected outcomes—a new, colorful, voluptuous, and lush nature. These pieces, specially crafted for this exhibition, mark a unique departure in my artistic journey.
Material Revelation Exhibit
Bio
Born in Valparaíso, Chile and trained as an architect, I've always had a passion for crafting by hand. Jewelry unexpectedly became a medium for me to merge my childhood loves of storytelling, painting, and making. Since 2010, I've balanced my time between my brand CasaKiro Joy and my art jewelry, known under my name Vania Ruiz. After several years working as an architect in Chile, I transitioned into jewelry making. Despite a self-directed and fragmented jewelry education from specialized courses, I've achieved First Prize twice in the Biennial of Latin American Contemporary Jewelry in 2018 and 2021. My work has been showcased on the cover of Metalsmith magazine and displayed in prestigious venues like the SCAD Museum, New Orleans Museum of Art, and New York MAD Museum. I take inspiration from nature to create bold pieces that stand out for their use of color, and exploration with synthetic materials.
Thank you to Hilliard Family Foundation Inc. for sponsoring Material Revelation
