Tonala, 
Latest Update
"I've been working with you now since 2002 and I consider you as part of my own family. I had the privilege of having one of your directors explain the project to me.
"When I first set up my workshop, sales were slow. But every one of you showed me incredible support and I found strength and faith in knowing that my work was being shared.
"The changes were obvious – we had to train the people who assist me and pay them better to overcome the challenges that arose along the way. My workshop became a formal and well-organized place to create and we improved the quality of our work as well as the tools to craft our designs.
"We're still working in the same workshop where we began but we've expanded the workspace and are growing as needed to keep up with the demands for our sculptures, chess sets and decor accents.
"We've faced significant challenges over these years. One I remember most was the supply of our materials. Once I was about to replenish designs and the pieces I used as the base of my sculptures were out of stock. I looked in a number of other places but wasn't able to find what I needed. I was told these pieces sold out easily here in the state, so I began seeking out suppliers from all over Mexico.
"In addition to the automotive and bicycle parts and scraps from die-cut metal, I've begun using pieces from suppliers that dismantle firearms. Our standardizing of each sculpture is much better organized. I'm very pleased to have definitively formalized my workshop.
"Today, I'm studying fine arts at the University of Guadalajara. My idea is that this will let me greatly expand my creativity."
Original Artisan Story
"Hi, I'm Armando Ramirez. All my life, I've lived in a town of artisans, and this has motivated me to create new art. As a child, I enjoyed inventing toys and soon yearned to create a unique style of art. Environmentally enamored, I now transform recycled goods.
"At first, little by little, I began to craft figures from scraps and discarded mechanical parts — mostly from cars and bicycles. And so I began to create sculptures, soldering the pieces together and giving them shape as I imagined they should look.
"The process involves selecting recycled items that can be used. I separate them and soak them in a cleaning solution to remove any impurities. I solder them together until I achieve my design, then I give the finished sculpture a protective coat of glossy varnish.
"My sculptures are so successful that today I sell only my own works. They are rustic in nature, designed to re-utilize discarded objects by converting them into art. Thanks to the creativity that God gave me, today I have an enjoyable and better way of life."
Unique Recycled Metal Eco Sculpture from Mexico 'Rustic Psychotherapist'
$47.99
(8)
Comments
M
7 more comments
Michaela Well made. Very sturdy. My friend absolutely loved it! High quality at an amazing price.
Eco-Friendly Upcycled Metal Spider Sculpture from Mexico 'Rustic Tarantula'
$57.99
(3)
Comments
P
2 more comments
Patricia Love this uniquely designed spider made of metal. Well made and designed. Lots of whimsical detailing!
Handcrafted Metal Sculpture Recycled Cart Parts Mexico Art 'Rustic Soccer Champs'
$44.99
(2)
Comments
L
1 more comment
Lynn This is a Christmas gift for my so in law who is from Mexico and loves soccer- I know he will love this
Recycled Car Part Cellist Sculpture 'Rustic Cellist'
$39.99
(4)
Comments
E
3 more comments
Enrique My son's a cellist and he was thrilled when he opened his gift. It's a great rendition of a cellist.
Collectible Recycled Car Parts and Metal Sculpture Rustic 'Rustic Professor'
$39.99
(2)
Comments
J
1 more comment
James well made and lighthearted. It leads to a discussion with the students as to its origin. Sparks interest in the artists. It is unique and exactly as described!
Recycled Metal Auto Part Sculpture of Seated Broadcaster 'Broadcaster'
$39.99
(2)
Comments
D
1 more comment
Denise Bought this as a Christmas gift for my nephew who wants to be a sports broadcaster. It's great quality, unique and he loves it!
Recycled Car Part Nurse and Patient Sculpture 'Beloved Nurse'
$47.99
(8)
Comments
I
7 more comments
Ibis M. I purchased this after my husband passed away to give to the nurse at our doctor’s office-it looked just like an event we had at the doctor’s and the nurse was wonderful!
The shelves are empty for now. Every piece Armando Ramirez makes is one of a kind, and they've all found homes. Follow to be first to see the next collection. Follow Armando Ramirez.
