Olivia Juárez
INSIDE the multi-disciplinary artist’s Home AND STUDIO
JEUNE OTTE: TELL US ABOUT your artwork.
OLIVIA: My artwork is a combination of sculpture and furniture design. I am inspired by many aspects of life, but here are a few recurring ones: simple and striking forms, anthropomorphism, and unique uses of materials. Conceptually, I enjoy reinterpreting historical and cultural narratives. The resulting pieces can serve a dual purpose, as both works of art and functional pieces to live and interact with.JO: You often collaborate with your husband Remy Bordas – how does that work?
OLIVIA: Remy and I have a very organic collaborative process, but it takes consistent work to keep ideas flowing. When designing new pieces, we start by researching, sketching, and making tests and samples independently. Then we come together to exchange ideas and provide feedback. At this stage, we mesh together our concepts, colors, forms, and proposed functions and iterate until we develop a design for a piece that we are both excited about and make plans to put into production. When working with other artists and makers we like to follow a similar process but develop the specifics along the way with them.
JO: What role does fashion play in your life?
OLIVIA: I highly value well-made, thoughtfully designed garments for both fashion and utility. Clothing is one of the few items we use that experience life alongside us. As a maker and metal fabricator, I have struggled to find work clothing that was both functional and stylish. Thankfully, I have found more options that are both well-fitting and durable over the years. Finding the right clothing to work in has given me a sense of belonging even when I am the only woman in a shop full of men. This confidence has spread outside of the metal shop as well and given me the confidence to experiment with my personal style at all times.JO: How did you feel about the Jeune Otte you tried?
OLIVIA: The pieces are timeless and made with high quality materials and are so comfortable to wear. They are pieces that I could dress up or down for many different occasions. I especially love the material choices – the velvety suit and silk shirt are incredible! 
