Mariana Rodriguez is a fourth-year fashion student from a small town southwest of Mexico. What she likes most about fashion is the opportunity of choice and how it makes her grow confident in her creative decisions.
Rodriguez’s constant inspiration is based on the natural world that surrounds her as she grew up, which helped her become a good observer. The Connector interviewed the young designer on her passion, unique techniques, and goals for the future.
The Connector: What was the idea behind your collection “One with Nature”?
Rodriguez: “One with Nature” is based on the idea of going back to nature; on the moments where humans are found in doubt and desolation. When I feel I don’t have inspiration, I always go back to nature and I find all the answers I’m looking for. It is also a tribute considering the times we live in and the climate changes we are experiencing. It is necessary to be conscious
Courtesy of Mariana Rodriguez. 
Courtesy of Mariana Rodriguez.
The Connector: What was the process like?
Rodriguez: This collection consists of three looks, and each garment was 100% painted by hand. It required the development of high-quality techniques that remained within my budget and time limit. I used silk fabrics because it absorbs paint well. I would cut the patterns of the designs in the fabric first to then be able to paint and sew it together. This was the best procedure because it didn’t waste paint or fabric.
Courtesy of Mariana Rodriguez. 
Courtesy of Mariana Rodriguez.
The Connector: Why did you choose to hand paint your garments?
Rodriguez: It reflects the authenticity and the pure essence of my taste. I learned to paint with oleo at nine years old and since then, paint has been my best friend. I’ve always wanted to paint on fabric and never got the opportunity until now. I also try to add a touch of my culture with bright and eye-catching colors.
The Connector: Do textiles influence your collections?
Rodriguez: The technique of this collection is based on textiles that are 100 percent silk, painted by hand. One day in the studio, a professor brought a box full of paint for fabrics. I picked a silk fabric scrap that I had and started to play with textures and recreated details from photographs. I chose a couple of images as my primary research, most that I took myself, and started to recreate them into the fabric by building different patterns. This way, I was able to develop the best technique for my collection.
Courtesy of Mariana Rodriguez.
The Connector: Which is your favorite look and why?
Rodriguez: My favorite is look #1 because it’s the one I spent more time on painting. Also, it’s a mini dress that looks good on any woman.
The Connector: Do you have a mission with the garments you create?
Rodriguez: Throughout the years, I learned that fashion and art are the same. I don’t just create fabulous garments, but pieces of art. My mission is to make consumers conscious of the value and time delivered onto each garment that is created. Creating by hand is an important
Photo by Rocio Choi. 
Photo by Rocio Choi. 
Photo by Rocio Choi. 
Photo by Rocio Choi.
