Doreen Villanueva of Latina Designs by Pilar

Latina Designs by Pilar Doreen Villanueva, owner Bio

Doreen comes from humble beginnings as the daughter of migrant farm workers. Early in life she gained an appreciation of the beauty and richness of the Mexican Culture through her family’s teachings and life experiences.

Several years ago, Doreen began merchandizing Native American Jewelry from New Mexico to galleries and retail establishments in California. She realized a void in jewelry that reflected the Latino culture and with her artistic talent and cultural background began to produce fine pieces of wearable art that reflect the artistic value of her culture. She now has her own jewelry line specializing on pre-columbian and contemporary Mexican designs that focus on four themes: Aztec/ Mayan, Dia de los Muertos Celebration, Women and Religious Icons. Each design is created using the lost wax method producing intricate silver designs that reflect different eras ranging from ancient to current times. Blending precious stones with her silver creations unveils a dramatic work of wearable art. Her goal has been to create beautiful jewelry that reflects the historic and artistic contributions of Mexico.

Her work has been displayed at:  The Santa Barbara Museum of Art, Santa Barbara, CA o She was also selected as the Artist in Residence for the Dia de los Muertos event at this museum.  The Museum of Latin American Art, Long Beach, CA  Iguanas, Long Beach, CA  Ortega’s Fine Jewelry on the Plaza in Santa Fe, NM  Downtown Sol, Oxnard, CA

In a very short time Doreen’s work has garnered wide acclaim and the demand for her jewelry continues to grow. This coming year she will be expanding to other markets in the Southwestern and Midwestern United States