Close Window

Marlene Torres

"My name is Marlene, I was born in Peru on March 6th, and I regard myself as a self-taught designer because I grew up in my dad's silversmith workshop and my aunt's seamstress workshop. My studies are in Computers and Integral Logistics.

"I inherited from my father, Pedro, his passion for pre-Inca cultures, which he expressed through his work. As a silversmith, he worked by hand with hammer and chisel, shaping metals such as silver and copper. On the other hand, my aunt América, who was a great tailor, instilled in me a passion for sewing and all forms of handcrafts.

"My artistic background has always been important to me, so even though I used to work in an office, I used to take the time to design my own wardrobe for work and for parties. However, I was never completely satisfied with the accessories I wore.

"I love all things Peruvian, and I am proud to be born in a land that is rich with artistic talent. That is why, in 2003, I decided to find a way to help artisans from different communities to promote the products they craft with their hands, such as ceramics, weaves, carvings, and leather goods designed either for personal use or for home décor. My project has made it possible for artisans to develop the financial means to provide for their families. We work together to ensure that each original product has a personal touch, a unique identity and a quality finish, all elements that a customer deserves to have.

"I admire Peruvian artisans for the treasures that they possess in their hands, that's why I'm impassioned about seeing them work with and for their families, so that they may improve their living standards.

"Helping these artisans inspired me to rekindle my own creativity, and in 2006 I decided to design and craft my own jewelry. It was a challenging decision to make, as I left the job I was doing, but it is a decision that has made me very happy. I am very dedicated to what I do. I am careful to preserve my family heritage through my designs, which feature cultural elements and Peruvian gemstones.

"My designs are modern, contemporary, and have an identity of their own. My designs are meant to convey the essence of Pre-Inca and Inca artistry while featuring trendy details. I include elements that distinguish each region of Peru, such as ceramics, leather, wool, woods, and the traditional weaves of the coast, the highlands, and the jungle.

"The pre-Inca and Inca cultures combined gems and metals in their artistry, which is the essence of my designs however, my vision is to include contemporary accents. In this way, my designs are original and therefore exclusive. I also have a penchant for Peruvian weaves, which I also would like to preserve through my designs.

"My greatest challenge is ongoing, that is, to create a space for Peruvian handcrafts. I am devoted to what I do, because it is something I have always loved to do, which are hand-crafted works of arts. This way I am also able to address my social responsibility with artisan families. It is my passion and thus I want to offer original products of the highest quality.

"I would like to thank Novica customers for taking time to read about me and for selecting a product that has been carefully crafted for you. My designs are crafted by hand with love and happy dedication. It makes me proud to know that you are wearing an accessory of Peruvian artistry. I would also like to thank the Novica team for the interest they have shown in my work and for offering me the opportunity of showing my collections to the world."