An exhibition of his work has just concluded at the La Colmena Art Space, where he will exhibit his work again in November. He is also preparing for a solo exhibition opening in Buenos Aires, Argentina. In the meantime, he continues to create mosaics, design, and produce new work.
Mosaics are designs and images created using small pieces (of tile or glass, for example) that have been used to decorate floors, walls, planters, and trays.
Ana Aguerrebere has been working professionally in this field for five years, a skill she learned at the Montevideo Workshop. Long before that, Ana Aguerrebere earned a bachelor’s degree in graphic design from ORT.
When did you first start to take an interest in “graphic design”?
Ever since I was very young, especially drawing. I usually got good grades in art and design classes. People have always considered me—and I consider myself—very creative and, at the same time, very sensitive.
In my opinion, it's like the perfect blend.
When did you realize that what had caught your attention could become your calling?
Actually, it was when I was older. I was finishing high school and, at the same time, I was studying Executive Secretarial Studies, also at ORT, but I always knew that my calling was in the arts, design, and creativity—things that were different from what’s considered “conventional” (law, architecture, notary work, etc.).
Earning my bachelor's degree in graphic design at ORT was a great decision; I don't regret it at all.
When did you start creating mosaics? How did that interest come about, and how did you balance it with design?
My journey into art began when I was just nine years old. My godmother, Laura, told my parents that I was “a future great artist.” From that age until now, I’ve been attending the Taller de Montevideo, directed by Rosina Rubio, and among the various techniques I’ve explored, I discovered mosaic art and fell in love with it.
It’s the perfect combination for calming anxiety, staying patient, and achieving beautiful, impactful results—and that’s where design naturally comes into play at every step: from the initial sketch, the medium, and the colors, to well-known artists and everything learned throughout my studies.
In my mosaics, I try to make them unique and give them my own personal touch, even though the technique doesn't allow for mass production the way graphic design does.
What is your mosaic-making process like these days?
I usually buy basic supplies, such as MDF for frames, small decorative pieces, supports, or any other material that helps me carry out the technique. Then I create the design, transfer it to the surface, and cut and glue the tiles one by one.
What is a typical workday like? Is there such a thing as a “typical workday”?
The truth is, it’s a bit of both. Between designing and creating mosaics, I don’t have a set or regular schedule—I might be designing, brainstorming ideas, or creating mosaics until 3 a.m., which is the cutoff time I’ve set for myself. Still, I always try to wake up as early as I can so I can make the most of my day.
How would you summarize the challenges and opportunities you face on a daily basis?
Every day is a challenge and a new opportunity, as my mother used to say: action begets action. To be honest, I've seen it for myself.
You recently wrapped up an exhibition at La Colmena, and you have one coming up in Buenos Aires, followed by another at La Colmena. Why is it important to exhibit your work?
At this stage, it’s very important for several reasons: first, that they learn the technique; second, that they like it; third, that they get to know me; and, of course, that they buy my work or commission custom mosaics from me, as if they were commissioning a design.
Which skills you acquired during your studies are useful to you in your current job?
All of them. Even though we used to wonder what the point of each subject was, in the long run you realize that they’re all useful and applicable.
It's just my opinion, but you can tell that it's not just a collage—there's an idea, a thought behind it.
What kind of legacy would you like to leave through your work?
I've always liked the idea of being recognized and going far. I always push myself a little harder to achieve different goals.
