Cristina Velasco Mora

Anaquiños de Papel

Paper sculptor

©Cristina Velasco

Paper sculptures to engage with audiences

Cristina’s work is sought by fashion houses and interior designers
The name of her studio uses the Galician term for little bits or fragments, anaquiños
She has created origami headpieces for several Vogue covers internationally

Cristina Velasco Mora's home province of Galicia has been a source of great fortune for her paper art. Her career path as a lawyer shifted in 2012 when her sister introduced her to origami. Enchanted by the craft while studying architecture, Beatriz inspired Cristina, leading them to create their own studio together, Anaquiños de Papel, in 2014. The following year they were commissioned to run a paper workshop by Galician famous fashion retailer, Zara. This created a domino effect of significant opportunities in decoration, fashion retail and publications. Despite the demands of motherhood, Cristina has kept the business running, while her sister returned to architecture. Today, as the sole artisan of the studio, Cristina undauntedly continues to evolve, opening new markets and sharing her skills across borders.

Interview

©Cristina Velasco

©Cristina Velasco

What motivated you to explore origami?: I enjoyed puzzles and Lego as a child, but I never expected paper to become my passion. My sister Beatriz introduced me to origami, sparking my interest in its incredible versatility. Since there were no local references in Spain, we turned to online videos and blogs from the United States and northern Europe, embarking on a self-taught journey.
How has Galicia influenced your work?: Galicia represents my identity, and the Galician Crafts Public Foundation recognised this by awarding us the Eloy Gesto Scholarship Award in 2018, which honours the region’s artisans. A Coruña, my hometown, is also the headquarters of Inditex (Zara). Their interest in crafts and local artisans has significantly contributed to the growth of my business.
In what ways has the fashion industry helped your craft evolve?: The fashion industry has realised that supporting artisanship can be a powerful marketing strategy. Regarding my craft, its ephemeral traits make it a popular tool for brand activation and connection. Through my paper art workshops, brands can connect and communicate with both their internal and external stakeholders.
What brands have represented the greatest challenge?: Two recent brand activations were particularly challenging. I conducted a workshop for Porcelanosa clients in New York during Christmas 2023, using L’Antic Colonial’s Skin wallpaper, with the added difficulty of presenting in English. Additionally, I created an installation for Simorra’s The Art of Braiding collection at 080 Barcelona Fashion, using white satin paper to mimic long, braided fabric.

Cristina Velasco Mora is a master artisan: she began her career in 2012 and she started teaching in 2015