# Project Description

Desde la Raíz (To be From the Root)

Paola Espinosa de los Monteros Robles

Summary

Final work

I'm from Mexico and my work consists on story telling my personal stories and cultural heritage. I explore vibrant materials and symbolism to express emotion, identity, and my connection to home. I'll will be continuing at LCF BA Costume for Performance

I'm from Mexico and my work consists on story telling my personal stories and cultural heritage. ...

College School of Pre-Degree Studies

Course UAL Foundation Diploma in Art and Design

Graduation year 2025

The garment represents a symbolic transformation of the body into the maguey plant, weaving together ancestral mythology and contemporary identity. Rooted in the Aztec story of Mayahuel the goddess of the maguey the piece reflects themes of femininity, resilience, and rebirth. Each hand-painted panel tells part of the myth, combining lino-cut prints and organic forms inspired by alebrijes to narrate the journey of Mayahuel and her fusion with the earth. The corset structure acts as the heart of the garment, grounding the illustrated panels while referencing both traditional shaping and nature.

Materially and conceptually, the garment merges tradition and modernity: inspired by the texture and structure of the maguey, it uses recycled fabric and hand-drawn motifs to honor craft and sustainability. The form embraces the body, acting like both skin and story wrapping the wearer in a narrative of cultural memory. It is a reflection of personal heritage, exploring how identity grows from ancestral roots, and how mythology still lives within the body today. By intertwining storytelling, material exploration, and wearable form, the garment becomes a vessel of transformation symbolizing connection, protection, and the possibility of regeneration.

Final work

Research and process

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The garment represents a symbolic transformation of the body into the maguey plant, weaving together ancestral mythology and contemporary identity. Rooted in the Aztec story of Mayahuel the goddess of the maguey the piece reflects themes of femininity, resilience, and rebirth....

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