Refinement inspired by the gauchos
- Ezequiel explored various crafts before specialising in leather
- His signature braided pieces are inspired by gaucho rope
- He was granted the Antonio Fraguas Award in 2024 in Galicia
Through hard work and perseverance, self-taught leatherworker Ezequiel Franchi Gil now crafts luxury leather pieces with excellence. "My approach is marked by disciplined investigation and a calculated, academic exploration of my craft," Ezequiel says. He learned this methodical approach at IUNA in Buenos Aires, where he studied fine arts before relocating to Spain in 2005. He initially worked with ceramics and explored jewellery making before fully dedicating himself to leatherwork in Ribadeo in Galicia, where he opened his atelier Raíces Nómadas. The classic, clear-cut and meticulously contoured lines of his bags have garnered attention for their exclusivity and elegance in Spain, affirming leather as the prime element in his creative work. Ezequiel's designs were finalists at Galicia’s Artisan Craft Awards 2022 and 2023, and he was granted the Antonio Fraguas Award in 2024 in the contemporary crafts category by the Provincial Council of A Coruña in Galicia.
INTERVIEW
My exploration of materiality has been a free flow of trial and error. The years I spent studying fine arts were a marvellous starting point that introduced me to different materials and techniques. I initially opted for wood, then when I moved to Spain, I chose ceramics and coiled wire jewellery. The latter led me to explore leather braiding techniques mastered by Argentinian gauchos before committing to leather work.
Fine leather has a particular smoothness to the touch that I had not encountered in other materials. Leather requires order and cleanliness to ensure quality in the production process. I had not realised how much I valued this aspect in my workspace until I started working with leather.
Leatherwork is precision at its finest – every stitch, edge and finish must be crafted with care. There is no room for imperfection, and quality is evident in a flawless finish. This is completely opposite to other materials I have worked with, such as ceramics, where imperfections can be a source of creative expression.
Although my designs are classic, I am currently collaborating with another artist to create unique leather pieces. We are crafting distinctive handbags featuring carved wooden handles and luxurious details, which has truly elevated our craftsmanship to an artistic level.
