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Gilvana Andrade

" Olá, I'm Gilvana, from northeast Brazil. I've always been interested in showcasing the natural treasures from my homeland, which is why all of my designs include materials from the region. I present them in such a way as to capture their natural beauty. That is why I thread them on buriti palm or leather used in the making of cowboy clothes.

"I've always made my own accessories, and it all started as a game – it was something I did for me and my friends. When I was a teenager I had my own, informal, workshop at home, and I received orders from family and friends. That's how I made my pocket money, and then eventually I began to sell at hotels.

"I began to design and craft jewelry in a more professional way in 2000, when I formally studied jewelry design and opened a real workshop. I worked with Sebrae, a government-sponsored project helps small companies and people find a market for their products as well as offer courses to improve quality and design. I traveled with them to several places to show my designs.

"In 2006 I decided to move to Rio de Janeiro as there are more opportunities for study, for refining my techniques and for improving my designs. I've always enjoyed experimenting, and moving here has provided me with the opportunity to work with different materials and in a different location. I have been developing new collections too, such as an ethical fashion project featuring recycled plastic bags with buriti palm.

"I love my home town, I'm passionate about my the region. When I'm there I feel I am bursting with health, people are amazing, and there are many great artists, some of whom are self-taught. Piaui is a very beautiful place."