Meet Rafael Ramos | Textile Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rafael Ramos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rafael, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Starting my career as an artist was a mixture of factors, but it became more relevant with the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many, I found myself counting my priorities and seeking new ways to channel my creativity during the lockdowns. The pandemic became a period of personal introspection and reinterpretation for me, prompting a deep dive into my artistic practice. It was during this time that I fully embraced my passion for textile art and recognized the potential to turn it into something more than just a hobby. Launching my own business, Memento Domus, became a way to not only navigate the challenges of the pandemic but also to redefine my purpose and forge a new path.

As a Venezuelan being based in Bogotá, Colombia, has played a significant role in shaping my artistic journey. Bogotá is a city with a rich cultural heritage and a deep appreciation for handmade crafts and the arts. Its vibrant artistic community and the city’s overall sensitivity to creativity have provided me with a supportive environment to explore and develop my craft. This cultural backdrop has not only influenced my artistic style but has also served as a source of inspiration and encouragement as I navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship in the arts sector.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is a blend of traditional textile methods and modern storytelling, weaving together themes of identity, migration, and cultural resonance. What sets my work apart is the personal narrative infused into each piece, creating a dialogue between the viewer and the art. I’m particularly proud of the emotional depth and connection that my creations evoke, fostering a space for reflection and introspection.

While the journey to where I am today hasn’t been without its challenges, it’s taught me the value of authenticity and resilience. Through setbacks and obstacles, I’ve learned to stay true to my artistic vision and push boundaries creatively. My brand, Memento Domus, is a testament to this journey—a celebration of handmade craftsmanship and a reminder of the power of storytelling through art.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Of course we will go to visit many museums and art galleries, as I said before Bogotá is very rich in that sense. A little party never killed nobody, so I’ll take them to Chiquita Bar, that have great drag show there and Colombian party is always a good idea. For a dinner we’ll go to Chichería Demente a very good restaurante that has a very nice offer of traditional food from Bogota with a modern Twist.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Certainly! I’m grateful to my friends they are my biggest fans. Of course I can not forget the countless who have made my art meaningful through their support, especially on social media. I’m fortunate to have a community of over 38,000 followers on Instagram and TikTok, whose encouragement is so endless, especially during moments of self-doubt.

I also want to express my appreciation to Bogotá’s rich cultural heritage and diverse creative scene have undoubtedly influenced my artistic journey in profound ways.

Also the insights and guidance offered by Julia Cameron’s “The Artist’s Way” methodology. This transformative approach has equipped me with invaluable tools for self-discovery and artistic expression, empowering me to navigate the creative process with confidence and clarity.

Instagram: mementodomus

Image Credits
All Pictures by Ivanna Diaz @Involutio