Alejandro Villanueva

"I am Alejandro Villanueva and I was born in Ecatepec, in the state of Mexico. I am a craftsman in leather goods. Twenty-two years ago I arrived in the city of Guanajuato, which is known as the capital of leather. I arrived to look for a field of opportunity; and it was thanks to a cousin that I decided to create my own line of leather goods.

"The main teaching I got was from practice and observation, and it was thanks to trial and error that I mastered it. It was difficult at first, since creating my own style implied looking for the best materials and creating products that were not only beautiful but also reflected the wealth of Guanajuato. My main material is cowhide, and I give it an unusual touch, which is to apply stones and gems such as obsidian and jadeite, all obtained from the center of the country.

"One of my inspirations is the archaeological zones of our country. And I want each of my products to have elegance but also to be useful for day to day.

"I work hand in hand with my wife, as well as my daughter, who motivates us to improve ourselves every day. I want my daughter to learn this trade that has taught me so much for so long. I hope that she learns to love it as much as I do.

"Now after a lifetime of creating leather pieces, we have grown, and we have several venues in the city. We provide employment and support the development of the region. My dream is that my pieces reach all parts of the world, and that my products contribute something to each of the people who acquire them. A little piece of Mexico: a smile, a flavor, history and tradition."