NOVICA Artisan Daniel Pineda
Daniel Pineda
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Daniel Pineda is talented designer in love with Guatemala's culture and traditions. He has always liked to do things differently and decided to strike out on his own. Jewelry is a passion of his and he decided to study this art in Mexico.
When he returned to Guatemala, he became interested in designing handbags, wallets and other accessories. He wanted to learn more about traditional Maya weavings and to get to know the people behind these beautiful creations.
"When you get to know their stories, you fall in love, really fall in love," he says. "I enjoy buying textiles and spending time with the craftspeople. This is when you form relationships with people and become committed to their work.
"Along the way, I've met wonderful craftspeople like Flor and Rafael Zurdo, a lovely couple who have helped me bring my designs to life. In addition to working together, we've become great friends. We've all experienced professional growth and seen how our lives have improved. I've seen other craftspeople who collaborate with me prosper. They've been able to build their own houses, send their children to school and earn their daily bread.
"I realize how grateful you have to be with life. I had the luck to grow up with a hardworking family where I never lacked anything and have had many opportunities. Life has opened up a lot of doors for me and it's where I've seen people who are happy even though they have little.
"My dream is to continue creating job opportunities for all of the marginalized people. I'd like to see them have their own shops and for their crafts to be recognized in other countries.
"Guatemala is the perfect place to get inspired. There's nothing more satisfying than seeing the beautiful landscapes, flowers, birds, people, weavings and the million colors we can observe in every corner of this beautiful land."
Daniel Pineda has participated in a number of international fairs to show his beautiful work. He always give credits to the craftspeople who bring his designs to life. He is dedicated and hardworking, and his creativity goes beyond fashion. His mission is to contribute a little grain of sand to help his country.
His family taught him to help others and taught him the kindness and empathy that characterize him. He takes part in projects that help low-income support groups. He plans to create designs that these groups can sell and generate an income to cover their costs.