Amaia Oillarburu

As a multidisciplinary Basque artist, I draw inspiration from the cultures and artisanal techniques I discover around the world. Having drawn since I could hold a pencil, I went on to study applied arts and fashion, cultivating a passion for experimenting with color and light through various artistic techniques.

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In May 2019, thanks to the Zellidja association, I created my first documentary in England, exploring English fashion style. Driven by a thirst for cultural exploration, I traveled to Mexico in January 2022 to collaborate with local artists. In San Cristóbal de las Casas, I learned traditional textile techniques and handmade paper crafting, then went on to study botanical prints and silver work in Oaxaca. Invited to share my creative process, I also led a workshop in the Tanivet’s women’s prison near Oaxaca.

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In December 2022, I designed a dress for a hypnotherapeutic virtual reality film aimed at improving sleep for people suffering from recurrent sleep disorders. 

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At the beginning of 2023, inspired by my work as a bartender, I painted scenes from the nightlife world and completed my first commissioned painting. In March, my first zine was published by Nébuleuses Editions, illustrating the story of a young woman intrigued by an elderly lady’s presence in the square she frequents daily.

In love with Mexico, I returned in July 2023 to learn tattooing. In October, I collaborated with Tercer Espacio in San Cristóbal to create a mural. 

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Then, in February 2024, I contributed to a collection of seven horror stories titled Anthropos & Metamorphoses, illustrating a story about abortion and the instrumentalization of women’s bodies.

In Guanajuato, I collaborated with the artist Manik on a private mural commission. In June, we exhibited 29 paintings in the show Un encuentro natural, delirios de un amor en plena búsqueda, exploring themes of nature, spirituality, and the tension between closeness and distance in our relationship.

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Driven by discovery and the dialogue between cultures, I continue my creative journey, inspired by places, encounters, and stories that transcend boundaries. I truly believe art must be shared with and for everyone.