Here at our Design Studio, we proudly celebrate artists who immerse us in diverse cultures, conveying memories and values through the exquisite interplay of colour and texture. This is beautifully showcased in the various artworks used in our schemes. We are thrilled to introduce you to the remarkable work of Colombian artist, Maria Berrio.

Berrio is currently based in the vibrant heart of Brooklyn, New York, just a stone’s throw away from Crosby Street Hotel. Berrio creates large scale collage artworks that delicately weave a tapestry of cross–cultural connections, ancestral heritage, and childhood memories. Berrio’s playful collages are delicately crafted using layers of Japanese print paper. She tears and cuts the print papers to form layers of depth and texture.

The use of Japanese paper reminds us of the artistry of one of our beloved collaborators, Kumi. Kumi masterfully transforms used and damaged kimonos into extraordinary designs. One of our most cherished designs by Kumi can be found at The Whitby Hotel, adorning the headboard in our Junior Terrace Suite.

While Berrio’s canvases predominately feature women and children in her kaleidoscopic utopias, we are truly captivated by the intricate textiles and designs found within the clothing, scenic views and furniture.

Berrio’s focus on colour and detail, found within textiles and prints is reminiscent of the vibrant colours and designs of Carla Kranendonk. You will find several of Carla Kranendonk’s fabulous vivid ladies exhibited in our hotels. Discover more about Carla Kranendonk and her inspiring use of colour in our blog post here.

Berrio draws her inspiration from the folklore of South America, where the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature paints a vivid and enchanting narrative. When sharing the inspiration behind her 2020 work ‘Miracles of Ordinary Light’, the artist said:

“I wanted to honour the beauty and size of a tree, and by doing so make something that reminded us that amidst death and grieving something grows beside us. At present, as we look for some sort of miracle to wash away this pandemic, making this tree became my own meditative search for hope.” 

Berrio’s artistry in layering is nothing short of inspirational and truly awe-inspiring. Her ability to create a quilt-like effect with the interplay of patterns and prints, using thinner materials mirrors the craftsmanship found in the world of quilt making.

We hope that Maria Berrio’s work will ignite your own creative spark. Berrio’s creations can be admired at prestigious institutions such as the Whitney Museum of American Art, the National Gallery in Washington, D.C., the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University, the Pérez Art Museum in Miami, and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia.