We were lucky to catch up with Guadalupe Quesada recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Guadalupe, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

A little over seven years ago, I founded Casa Lü, an artist residency program based in Mexico City, and we’ve had the privilege of hosting over 440 artists from around the world. This endeavor was inspired by my own transformative experiences as an artist-in-residence in Guldagergaard (Denmark) and ComPeung (Thailand). These residencies profoundly impacted my life, rekindling my connection to my inner self and spirituality.

Motivated by the positive impact these experiences had on me, I sought to create a similar opportunity for other artists. Casa Lü is more than just a residency; it’s a creative community dedicated to fostering artistic and personal growth through art. We provide a supportive environment where artists can immerse themselves in their work, explore our wonderful city, and connect with like-minded individuals.

Seeing artists flourish and develop their unique voices at Casa Lü is incredibly rewarding. It’s a privilege to witness the positive transformations that occur within our program. The sense of community and shared purpose among our residents and team members is truly inspiring. Casa Lü has become a significant part of my life, and I’m proud of the impact it has made on the artistic community. It’s a project that aligns with my values and allows me to give back to the world in a meaningful way.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I was born and raised in Mexico City. At 19, I moved to Paris to study French and soon after pursued a degree in Fine Arts at the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts. During my studies, I discovered a passion for ceramics and have since dedicated most of my artistic practice to creating ceramic sculptures.

My sculptures explore the hidden realms of nature, where technology unveils extraordinary life forms. From the depths of the ocean to the microscopic world of microorganisms, I am captivated by the intricate beauty and diversity of these beings. These unseen wonders remind us of the vastness of the natural world and the limitations of human perception. Without the aid of microscopes, cameras, and submersibles, these creatures would remain forever unknown. This realization sparks a profound curiosity about the countless other life forms and alternate realities that may exist beyond our current understanding. I am driven to imagine and create possible creatures and worlds, inviting viewers to contemplate the infinite possibilities of life. My intention is to inspire a sense of wonder and humility, encouraging us to see our own existence as a mere fragment of a much larger cosmic tapestry.

Besides my sculptural practice, I also create functional art pieces, including vases and candle holders, under the brand TERRESTRE. And beyond my personal artistic endeavors, I’m deeply committed to fostering creativity and community at Casa Lü. Alongside my brother, Vicente, we’ve built a dedicated team of eleven individuals who work tirelessly to provide a supportive and enriching environment for our artists in residence. I believe that art has the power to transform lives and inspire social change. I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to share my passion with others and contribute to Mexico City’s vibrant art scene.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

One of the biggest challenges in running Casa Lü has been navigating the complexities of managing a diverse group of international artists. In the early days, I faced numerous unexpected situations that tested my resilience. I learned firsthand the importance of clear communication, setting boundaries, and fostering a supportive environment.

A particular challenge arose when we hosted a resident who faced some unexpected health issues. This experience was deeply impactful, as it required me to spend several nights at the hospital. Ultimately, she returned home safely, and I learned firsthand the importance of thorough communication and preparation for any visitors with special needs. Through this and other challenging experiences, I’ve grown and learned the importance of having the support of a strong team. I’m proud of my team and the contributions they make to create the positive and inclusive community we’ve cultivated at Casa Lü, where artists from all backgrounds feel safe and inspired. It’s a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of learning from mistakes.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I envision expanding Casa Lü into a thriving creative community. Currently, we operate out of two separate homes, each hosting up to five artists, but I dream of a larger space that can host twenty artists. Imagine a building where artists can live, work, and inspire one another, sharing ideas and collaborating on new projects. A space that also includes an exhibition area to showcase their incredible work.

I also dream of creating a sculpture garden, a serene outdoor space where visitors can connect with nature and art. This garden would feature my work alongside that of other talented artists, offering a peaceful and inspiring experience.

While these goals may seem ambitious, I’m excited about the journey ahead. By staying patient, persistent, and dedicated, we can celebrate each milestone and learn from every experience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.guadalupequesada.com / https://www.casalu.org / https://www.elsurmx.art
• Instagram: @lupe.quesada @ca_sa_lu @casalu_sur

Image Credits

Jero Gallo (Portrait)

Rubén Garay (Sculptures)