The leather visionary
- Cecilio is nomadic, solitary and a perfectionist
- His work is highly sought after in the entertainment industry
- Sci-fi and horror movies are among his inspirations
Cecilio Castrillo’s craft embodies what one has in mind when thinking about who an artisan might be. He works on his own, totally immersed in his fantasy and his creations. He doesn't even have a fixed address; his work being his sole focus, it doesn't matter to him where he is based. His hands are his tools and his best ally to sculpt leather – no moulds are involved, just the painstaking shaping of the different hides he carefully selects. He sculpts masks and body pieces, letting creativity run free in a process that can be lengthy – it may take up to two months to complete a single work. Patience and dedication underpin his achievements. He aims for perfection, starting from an original idea right through to an immaculate finish for each of his creations. It is this mastery and ingenuity that has led him to be the master creator behind some of Lady Gaga's showstopping iconic fashion statements.
Interview
- What defines your work?
- Everything you see is handmade, no machinery is involved. I do not sketch beforehand, I create the piece with my hands as I mould it and sculpt it. I moisten the leather beforehand, dye it myself and even make my own metal ornaments.
- Do you only use leather?
- This is my natural choice of material as I grew up surrounded by leather (my mother was a glove maker). Its versatility allows me to sculpt pieces that adapt to faces and bodies, both enhancing and hiding their features, creating a halo of mystery. Possibilities are endless, creativity can run free.
- You don't have a store or online shop, so how do people find you?
- I do have a website. My products are very specific, imaginative and transgressive, with Gothic or punk vibes. This is why I am approached by people who are searching for such products, be it for a party or to collect. I also work with the entertainment industry on bespoke pieces.
- Is there a career highlight you’d like to share?
- I was very proud of my collaboration with Madonna's team. My brothers used to listen to her music when I was a kid. I created masks and headpieces for her dancers in her 2015 concerts and videos. And then there was the 2012 Superbowl half-time show, which also featured my creations.
Cecilio Castrillo is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2007
Where
Cecilio Castrillo
