6 THINGS WITH LAURA ESTELA
6 Things with Designer and Artist Laura Estela
Laura Estela is a multifaceted artist and Creative Director of Matiz Estudio, deeply rooted in the cultural and natural landscapes of Tijuana, Baja California, México. Raised in a creative environment — shaped by her architect father and teacher-writer mother — Laura has a profound respect for both materiality and narrative. Specializing in working with terracotta clay sourced from her hometown, she honors the Earth and draws inspiration from local indigenous communities. Passionate about design, culture, and sustainability, her work is a harmonious blend of nature's awe-inspiring elements and human experience.
1. What started it all for you?
I draw inspiration from the vibrant culture and daily life of local indigenous communities. I honor the Earth in my work, frequently utilizing the terracotta clay from my hometown as a signature element.
I was fortunate to grow up in a creative and experimental environment, thanks to my father's work as an architect and artist and my mother's role as a teacher and writer. Their influence ignited my interest in both materiality and narrative, encouraging me to explore the intricate relationship between material creativity and human experience.
Currently, I serve as the Creative Director of Matiz Estudio. I'm also the founder of Eleache Estudio, a multidisciplinary design and consulting project. I collaborate with Fragmento architecture and design studio and teach at the Escuela Libre de Arquitectura. In addition, I'm a manager for Tijuana Design Week 2023, an agent for the sustainable mobility project "Mover la Ciudad" in Tijuana, Baja California, and part of the Design To Action working group for WDC Arts and Culture 2024.
I'm passionate about the intersections of design, culture, and sustainability, and I'm committed to contributing to these fields through my various roles.
2. What drives your creative spark?
3. Most treasured home decor item?
Without a doubt, an art painting by my Father is an amulet that brings me peace, makes a smile appear on my face, and serves as a reminder to create what I'm passionate about.
4. What’s the best advice you've ever received?
Recently, during a work trip, I came across an incredible project called "Innovando la tradición." This initiative narrates, exhibits, and collaborates with potters from the city of Oaxaca. One statement that caught my attention was, "Recognizing that life is not about a linear, productivist race towards a goal that never arrives, but about a cyclical, constant process of learning and growth, to give and protect life," as stated by Oaxacan Potter Masters. This sentiment prompts important questions about the meaning and intention behind re-valuing community and fostering mutual support at various scales of creation.
5. It's 5 o'clock at home. What would you be pouring?
It depends a lot on the mood, but I typically enjoy a cup of lemongrass, orange peel and ginger tea or a glass of red wine.
6. What are your favorite accounts that you follow for inspiration?
@salvalopez
@turbina.studio
@maureenme
@ricardoramosphoto
@kollektedby
@casabosqueschocolate
"Curiosity and exploration are the cornerstones of every project and idea I undertake. Observing and analyzing people's experiences not only enriches my understanding of the individual but also opens me up to the ideologies and passions of others. This is incredibly inspiring for me. The prospect of learning in any and every form truly captivates me." -Laura Estela
