LOUPE / DESIGNERS

María Ignacia Walker

CYNTHIA LUI

Born in Santiago, Chile, María Ignacia Walker undertook her undergraduate degree in Advertising at Universidad del Desarrollo. After graduation, she worked as Art Director for advertising firms in Santiago. After four years doing advertising, she started pursuing professional development in the arts. By mixing the techniques of ceramics, jewellery and textiles, she discovers new approaches in contemporary jewellery. 

In October 2012, María moved to Florence, Italy, and began her studies at Alchimia Contemporary Jewellery School, under the tutorship of artists Ruudt Peters and Jorge Manilla. She graduated with Master’s degree in Fine Arts in 2015, majoring in Body Ornament. She now resides in Florence, where she had previously taught in the Institute Lorenzo de’ Medici and currently works as an independent artist. 

María has exhibited her works in different group exhibitions around Europe, Australia, Japan, China, USA and Chile. She has held solo exhibitions in Santiago of Chile, and Barcelona, Spain. She completed her studies thanks to a scholarship granted by Chilean Ministry of Culture. 

María founded her own her own brand MIW Jewellery. Drawing inspiration from the nature, shapes are transformed and come to life in metal. All jewellery collections are limited edition of which every single piece is handmade and unique, created through a delicate process of investigation.

María Ignacia Walker's work
RESIDENCY PROGRAMME

Loupe's Design Residency Programme is a comprehensive mentoring programme with industry experts from the established Chow Tai Fook Jewellery, specially created for jewellery designers who wish to elevate their career and skills to the next level. During the period of mentorship, designers-in-residence can expect to develop their skills and capabilities in jewellery design in the fully-equipped environment at Loupe.

Apply Now