Meet Andrea Perales Covarrubias

We were lucky to catch up with Andrea Perales Covarrubias recently and have shared our conversation below.

Andrea, thank you so much for making time for us today. We can’t wait to dive into your story and the lessons you’ve learned along the way, but maybe we can start with something foundational to your success. How have you gone about developing your ability to communicate effectively?

My ability to communicate effectively has developed through a combination of lived experience, artistic practice, and collaboration. Growing up in a border city like Matamoros, I was constantly navigating between languages, cultures, and identities. This experience taught me the value of listening and adapting my message depending on the context.

As an artist, communication extends beyond words—it’s about translating ideas into forms and materials that resonate with others. Working with textiles, installations, and sculptures has pushed me to refine how I convey concepts like territory, identity, and connection in a way that feels universal yet personal.

Collaboration has been another key factor. Whether working with other artists, curating exhibitions, or engaging with communities, I’ve learned that effective communication involves a balance of clarity, empathy, and openness to feedback.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I’m an artist deeply connected to materials, architecture, and the crafts that shape both. Growing up in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, I was surrounded by the tools and textures of architecture and design—wood, concrete, and textiles. These influences became the foundation of my artistic practice, which explores themes of identity, territory, and corporeality through sculpture, installation, and textiles.

What excites me most about my practice is the way I blend traditional techniques with contemporary concepts. Textiles, in particular, fascinate me because they carry both personal and collective memories, creating spaces that feel like thresholds—at once transient and grounded.

In addition to my art practice, I started a clothing brand three years ago called Segundo Piso. It began with a simple coverall design and has evolved into a line of workwear that bridges functionality and creative expression. The pieces are inspired by the tools and processes of making, celebrating the labor that goes into both art and craft. Segundo Piso is set to continue growing, and this ongoing development keeps me excited about the potential of learning and collaborating.

I also have my art studio, e.stud.io, in Oaxaca, which is focused on production but has recently opened its doors for exhibitions. It’s a space where I can experiment with ideas and invite others into the process, creating an environment that fosters both creative production and collaboration.

Currently, I’m focused on several projects. One is a public installation titled Cuartito – La Orilla de La Orilla, set to debut in Matamoros in March 2025. I’m also preparing for an art residency in Mulhouse, France, and Basel, Switzerland, with Atelier Mondial which is April to September of this year.

Beyond exhibitions, I’m collaborating with a friend on her bathing suit line called De Mafe, which is set to launch in 2025.

My goal is to create work that invites people to reflect on their relationship with materials, space, and each other. Whether through art, clothing, or collaborations, I aim to create a sense of connection that feels both intimate and universal.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

I’d say the three most impactful qualities in my journey have been adaptability, curiosity, and respect for craftsmanship.

Adaptability: My work spans across different materials and practices, from sculpture to textiles, and even clothing design. The ability to adapt—whether learning new skills, responding to unexpected challenges, or shifting between disciplines—has been essential. Embrace change and challenges, and stay open to new opportunities. My advice: Step out of your comfort zone and be flexible in your approach.

Curiosity: A deep desire to learn and understand has driven my practice. For those starting out, stay curious, ask questions, explore diverse perspectives, and always trust your gut! Do the big sculpture, even if it doesn’t make sense in the moment.

Respect for Craftsmanship: Understanding the time and skill involved in making things has shaped my approach. Learning is a beautiful thing, and it’s also important to know you don’t have to do everything yourself! Invest your time in mastering the basics, and value the process as much as the result.

For those early in their journey, my advice is: Stay curious, embrace the process, and be adaptable. Growth happens through exploration, consistent effort, and remembering that not everything has to make sense right away.

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?

When I feel overwhelmed, I try to step back and re-center myself. One thing I do is take a break and get out of my head—whether that means going for a walk, meditating, or just doing something completely different for a while. It helps me reset and return with a clearer perspective.

Another strategy is breaking things down into smaller, manageable tasks. I make lists to organize everything, which helps me focus on one thing at a time instead of feeling overwhelmed by the big picture.

I also remind myself that it’s okay to not have everything figured out all at once. Allowing myself space to process, reflect, and adjust is important. And I’ve learned to ask for help when I need it, whether that’s from friends, collaborators, or mentors.

For anyone feeling overwhelmed, my advice would be: take a step back, breathe, and give yourself permission to slow down. Make lists to prioritize, focus on small wins, and remember that you don’t have to do everything alone.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: andpercov
• Facebook: Andrea Perales
• Other: instagram

  @segundopiso_mx
  @e.stud.io

Image Credits

Jesus Beristáin