Porcelain pathways formed across continents
- Leila left a career in political science and communications to pursue jewellery-making in Bogotá
- She developed a distinctive porcelain technique after studying in Spain, Colombia and Sweden
- Her jewellery was featured at Munich’s Schmuck 2025 and Bogotá Fashion Week
Like the porcelain chains of her Under Water series, Leila Riaza’s journey as a jeweller has unfolded through a series of interconnected and contrasting experiences. Born in Madrid, she left her career in 2007 to move to Bogotá, a new chapter that sparked her passion for crafting. "Creating with my hands is an innate part of my daily life now," she says. Through jewellery, Leila made mindful making her new career path. Between 2008 and 2010, she studied at Bogotá’s High and Fine Jewellery School and Materia Prima. Over the years, she developed and refined a porcelain making technique to create elements for her jewellery pieces. In Colombia, she presented her work at Expoartesanías and Bogotá Fashion Week. Today, back in Madrid, Leila is drawing on her global experiences and her roots to forge new creative connections.
INTERVIEW
I remember my grandmother working as a seamstress and considered a path in the fashion industry. Moving to Colombia gave me the opportunity and freedom to explore a new career in crafts. I chose jewellery because I wanted to engage in the entire creative process, beginning with a deep understanding of materials.
I began working with porcelain in 2014, after taking a course at Lalabeyou in Madrid. Though it may be perceived as a delicate material, porcelain also holds an inherent strength. It is versatile and allows for great exploration in form, texture and colour. Working with porcelain has taught me patience and creative problem-solving throughout the production process.
My jewellery has always had strong references to Art Deco and geometric forms. I suppose I am also inspired by the contrasting qualities of the places I have lived in: Spain, Colombia and Sweden.
I am giving myself the space to explore materials and forms through non-precious jewellery, collaborating with others and participating in local exhibitions. I have reconnected with Madrid’s artisan community, and see myself returning to porcelain soon, especially now that I have easier access to high-quality European supplies.
