Santiago Cuciniello's journey into goldsmithing began in his childhood when he spent hours drawing and creating with his hands. Studying at a technical school was a natural choice, and there, almost by chance, he discovered goldsmithing. This craft, which initially was a technical learning experience, gradually transformed into a true artistic vocation. For Santiago, art emerges when the craft aligns with the essence of the creator, and he has always firmly believed that "without craft, there is no art."
The influences that nourish his work are diverse. He draws inspiration from Art Nouveau and artists like Klimt, Mucha, and Escher, as well as from European graffiti, especially the Love Letters collective. These elements combine in his mind, where images appear clear and ready to be materialized with the skill acquired over the years.
A project he holds especially dear is a tribute to Antonio Colombo, a renowned bicycle designer. This work, which he completed entirely on his own, had a significant impact and was purchased by Colombo's wife to give him for Christmas. The project resonated deeply among cult bicycle enthusiasts, solidifying his reputation in that field.
In contemporary goldsmithing, Santiago sees a positive evolution. Although generic pieces are still common, creations with a unique artistic stamp are increasingly valued. This trend motivates him to continue exploring and creating.
The process of finishing a work is, for Santiago, a moment of pride and self-assessment. Though rarely completely satisfied, he learns to let go and enjoy the process. For Santiago, the success of his work is 100% tied to public appreciation.
To aspiring goldsmiths, he recommends having a clear strategy and finding a good mentor. Goldsmithing is a broad field with many different techniques, and it is crucial to find the best way to approach each project. In his own work, Santiago seeks to convey freshness, harmony, and solidity, reflecting his constant quest for perfection.
Inspiration is essential to him. Pursuing an idea that appears in his mind is one of the greatest pleasures of his work. Cinema, in particular, offers him a rich source of ideas and references. Always focused on his next creation, Santiago lives in a continuous present of creativity, where each new piece represents an opportunity to explore and express something new.
His workshop is his refuge, an intimate place where he can concentrate without distractions. Solitude is a necessary companion for his creative process, and mate is his constant ally from the start of each day. There, in his personal space, Santiago transforms metal into art; each hammer blow and each polish is one more step on his artistic journey.
Despite how much Santiago loves what he does, he had to learn to separate his personal life from art, understanding the importance of taking care of his well-being and interpersonal relationships. In moments of greatest need, art becomes therapy, channeling his emotions and thoughts into each piece.
Santiago finds in his workshop the ideal place to create. He starts each day by preparing a mate, a ritual that marks the beginning of his creative process. Thus, between sips of mate and brilliant ideas, Santiago Cuciniello turns metal into poetry, leaving a lasting mark with each piece he creates.
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