Benjamín Ramírez

Da Capo Escultura

Stone carver

©Da Capo Escultura

Carving a great relationship with the stone

Benjamín opened his workshop in 2004
He trained with a mentor for five years
His work on the stone is adaptable

In 1998, Benjamín Ramírez, barely 19 years old, began his journey into the world of stone carving. Although he did not learn the trade at a university, he did have a mentor – a sculptor with a degree in Fine Arts – who trained him as an apprentice for five years, teaching him techniques and instilling in him great wisdom. His works have a strong identity, yet they are also timeless and unique. He expresses tradition in a natural and unconscious way. But at the same time he is a non-conformist and aims to improve and innovate without being oblivious to the outside world. Adding new ways of expressing allows him to be genuine. What Benjamín enjoys most is sharing with his clients the satisfaction of a job that has been finished and done well.

Interview

©Da Capo Escultura

©Da Capo Escultura

What do you think is your most remarkable skill?: I think "I have eyesight" as we say around here, it means that I quickly grasp an idea and that I easily and intuitively solve problems. This ability when transferred to the stone – to the material – is a massive advantage as it allows me to achieve very unique finishes.
What are the secrets behind your work?: Behind my work, as a sculptor, I am accompanied by a wonderful team. Together with my sisters, I have managed to build a very creative environment to project my work and services always better. This is the secret and at the heart of "Da Capo Escultra". I am very lucky.
Are there any memories from your professional life that you would like to share?: I especially remember a public project I undertook for my town: a large, realistic sculpture. I was very young and it was the first recognition I received in my career as a sculptor. I was very excited about it and shared it with my parents: it was a way of thanking them.
How do you recognise excellence in a piece?: For me, well done means understanding the client, having the commitment, and collaboration and pulling it all together into the final piece. When clients are satisfied with a job done, it is because I have fulfilled that understanding, I have committed and I have collaborated.

Benjamín Ramírez is a master artisan: he began his career in 1998 and he started teaching in 2006