We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Gabriela A Velasquez. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Gabriela A below.
Hi Gabriela A, thanks for joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on is naming some of my jewelry pieces with indigenous names that highlight positive attributes. This initiative stems from a deep respect and admiration for the resilience and virtues of our indigenous communities. By incorporating these names, I aim to remind us of the enduring strength and admirable qualities that are still part of our identity.
Gabriela A, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Hello there, I’m Gaby A. Velasquez, and my story begins in the heart of Venezuela. Now, after 22 years, I proudly call myself a Houstonian, deeply rooted in the fabric of this diverse city. Life has taken me on a fascinating journey through various roles – from serving tables to guiding eager minds as an English instructor, navigating the intricacies of tax preparation, and even working with pets in the veterinary field. Each experience has shaped me, making me an integral part of the immigrant community.
When the pandemic began, I found myself searching for creative outlets to express myself, leading me to rediscover my passion for handmade jewelry. In 2019, I created Cacao Designs, a brand that offers handmade pieces of cultural reverence. Our artisan jewelry collection, meticulously crafted, draws inspiration from the aesthetics of our ancestors. The people of the land. Each piece encapsulates the rich heritage and beauty of ancestral eras, providing women, men, and children with a unique and captivating connection to history through our accessories.
What sets Cacao Designs apart is our dedication to detail and our passion for preserving the beauty of the past. We name each piece after native names that embody positive qualities, ensuring that every item in our collection tells a story of tradition and inner strength. Our stunning array of bracelets and necklaces not only adorns but also narrates stories, connecting our clients to their roots and cultural heritage. ( From the Americas and Africa)
One of my proudest achievements with Cacao Designs is creating pieces that resonate deeply with our customers, offering them a sense of connection and pride in their heritage. Our jewelry isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about evoking emotions and preserving history regardless where you are from. It brings a sense of appreciation for cultural expression through jewelry.
I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that Cacao Designs is more than just a brand; it’s a journey through time, culture, and personal expression. Whether you’re looking for a piece that tells a story or simply something beautiful to wear, you’ll find it with us. Join us in celebrating the beauty of our shared heritage. You can find us @cacao_dsigns.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
The driving goal behind my creative journey with Cacao Designs is to bridge the gap between modern fashion and ancestral heritage. I aim to create pieces that are not only beautiful but also meaningful, providing wearers with a tangible connection to their roots. By infusing each design with cultural significance and naming them after native names or qualities, I strive to honor and preserve the rich traditions of our ancestors.
Moreover, my mission is to empower individuals by offering them accessories that symbolize inner strength, resilience, and positive qualities. Through Cacao Designs, I hope to inspire others to embrace their heritage with pride and to see the beauty in their cultural history. In doing so, I aim to foster a sense of unity and appreciation for the diverse backgrounds that make up our community.
Ultimately, my goal is to create a brand that is not only recognized for its aesthetic appeal but also for its dedication to storytelling and cultural preservation. I believe that fashion can be a powerful medium for cultural expression and education, and through Cacao Designs, I want to make a meaningful impact on how people perceive and celebrate their heritage.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative with Cacao Designs is the profound connection I get to make with people through my work. Seeing someone wear one of my pieces and knowing it resonates with them on a personal level is incredibly fulfilling. Each piece of jewelry I create tells a story and carries a piece of our shared heritage, and witnessing how it brings joy, pride, and a sense of identity to the wearer is truly priceless.
Another deeply rewarding aspect is the ability to preserve and celebrate cultural heritage. By drawing inspiration from ancestral aesthetics and naming each piece after native qualities, I contribute to keeping these traditions alive and relevant in today’s world. It’s an honor to be a custodian of this rich history and to share it with others in a way that is both meaningful and beautiful.
Additionally, the creative process itself is immensely gratifying. The journey from conceptualizing a design to seeing it come to life involves a lot of passion, dedication, and craftsmanship. Each step of this process allows me to express myself creatively and to constantly evolve as an artist.
Lastly, the community and connections I’ve built through Cacao Designs are incredibly rewarding. Interacting with clients, hearing their stories, and knowing that my work has a positive impact on their lives is a source of great joy and motivation. It’s these relationships and the shared appreciation for art and culture that make my creative journey so enriching.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cacao_dsigns/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cacaodsigns
Image Credits
Cacao photography Houston