The Work Of Tanya Aguiniga Holds A Deeper Purpose

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Tanya Aguiniga

To say that artist Tanya Aguiniga is pushing the boundaries with art is an understatement. Rooted in tradition, her work–which consists of woven pieces and large-scale projects, as well as accessories and clothing–helps to support her local non-profit and brings a voice to global and community issues. Luxe sat down with Aguiniga to get to know her on a personal level.

Tanya Aguiniga

Sunlight catches hand-painted, crocheted Mylar necklaces.

Tanya Aguiniga

The artist dip-dyes rope bracelets.

Tanya Aguiniga

>The accessories and clothing she creates fund her non-profit projects as well as provide another means of artistic expression--and the opportunity to explore her ideas on a smaller scale

Tanya Aguiniga

A light by Brendan Ravenhill, who previously occupied the studio and with whom Aguiniga collaborates, hangs above the artist.

Tanya Aguiniga

Tanya Aguiniga

Models and examples of her accessories hang on a wall.

Tanya Aguiniga

Her new digs allow more space for her and her team to tackle a range of projects including a colorful client commission.

What do you love most about your work?
I am really honored to have been able to create a community around me of people that I love working with. The studio environment and working techniques we use make for a very organic, creative, communal and safe space for both women and minorities. I am also excited to be able to employ amazingly talented people in my community.

Divulge your dream collaboration.
I would love to do a project with CalEarth. I have been really drawn to terra-cotta and self-drying clay in the last few years, and I would love to take that inspiration to larger architectural processes.

What do you collect?
I collect things that make me happy from people that I respect or love. I like the memories of travel, friendship and discovery that each piece we own carries with it.

What’s your dream trip?
I am dying to go to Morocco. I usually book a trip somewhere and then figure out what I’m going to do by researching a month before, or playing it by ear and allowing the trip to take me wherever it may once I arrive.

PHOTOS: AMY DICKERSON