Agave Reimagined: MAMF's Disobedient Materials Christmas Show

The festive season offers the perfect chance to celebrate creativity and innovation, and this December, I was thrilled to showcase my work-in-progress at CSM. The journey to the exhibition wasn’t without its challenges, last-minute changes and a whirlwind of stress, both my own and everyone else's. But with deadlines looming, we powered through, and somehow, everything came together.

The event’s stunning projects and vibrant displays set the stage for an unforgettable end of term celebration, making all the hard work worthwhile.

A Festive Atmosphere

The moment you stepped into the MAMF studio, you were welcomed by the warm glow of neon lights and soft bulbs that illuminated each project. Just days before, the studio had felt worlds apart from the transformed, vibrant showcase it became a window into the future, a hint of what could be our graduation projects, each filled with creativity and potential. The space buzzed with excitement, matching the festive spirit perfectly.

But the atmosphere went beyond the visuals; it created a unique sense of connection among us as students, as well as with the CSM community and the curious attendees who wandered through our work. Conversations sparked effortlessly, with each display offering a new slice of innovation to discuss. Sharing my project rooted in Mexican culture, half a world away from home, felt exhilarating. Yet, unlike in the U.S., the U.K. isn’t as familiar with Tequila realm, so seeing visitors’ unexpected reactions to a tequila-centered project was eye-opening. It was a reminder of how cultural context shapes our perception of materials and sustainability, and a thrilling opportunity to bring something truly unique to the table.

A Memorable Celebration: An Ode to Agave

This project transforms waste into art, weaving tales of historical and cultural richness. Crafted from Tequila industry byproducts, my pigments shape iconography inspired by the agave; a remarkable plant at the heart of tequila production.

This piece not only demonstrates how innovative materials can reduce waste but also illustrates what regenerative practices in tequila production might look like. By merging technology with artisanal skills, Cuemái repurposes byproducts from one of Mexico’s fastest-growing spirits.

As the evening drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the surreal experience of my first exhibition far from my continent. As night descended over King’s Cross and the space quieted, I felt a deep sense of pride and happiness. For one night, I had the chance to share a piece of Mexico with a new audience, a truly unforgettable moment.