We are sure you've heard about paintings on canvas and murals on walls, but you don't see paintings on leather and luxury goods every day. Filipino artist Madeth Escudero's passion for art inspired her to expand her skills to work as a customizer for leather goods such as bags, shoes, wallets, luggage, etc.
The ILoveQatar.net (ILQ) team caught up with the artist and mother of two to learn more about her work, creative process and more. Read on to find out!
Madeth Escudero: My name is Madeth. I'm a digital designer by profession and a self-taught artist at heart. I currently work as a customizer for leather goods such as bags, shoes, wallets, luggage, etc. Some luxury brands I work on are Louis Vuitton, Goyard, Hermès, Cartier, Fendi, etc.
You would likely see me mothering my two little girls when I'm not dubbing my paintbrushes. It's a big blessing to have a set-up where I'm able to enjoy my passion and earn money while taking care of my family at the same time.
Madeth Escudero: Art has been my hobby growing up. Although it wasn't my profession, I'd continuously practised it whenever I could. When I moved to Qatar, I was into creating realistic art using coloured pencils when, one day, a client asked me to paint her Fendi bag.
I knew it would be fun, but I was hesitant because I didn't have the experience of painting on leather yet. I had to decline the project as I was scared I would ruin an expensive bag. Then I got the same offer repeatedly and refused bag after bag. It made me more curious, so I researched, did many trials by testing different paint brands, and studied the trends.
I realized that product customization is a thing nowadays. Long story short, I finally had my first bag project a year after the Fendi incident, and they keep coming to this date.
Madeth Escudero: I create digital mockups! Mockups give my clients an overview of how the actual artwork would look in real life. It's additional work for me but it's a requirement to avoid errors. I also give my clients some creative options to choose from.
So, regardless of the material, brand or price of the bags, I always show mockups for them to review first. Once approved, that's the only time I paint on the actual bag.
Madeth Escudero: The usual compliments I hear from people are, "That's 3D!", "Good details!", "I thought it was just printed because it looks so real! Quality is very important to me. I'm very particular with details and take my time making every piece. I don't mass-produce my artwork.
Madeth Escudero: During the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, I had the opportunity to paint star players on footballs. FIFA fans all over the world, famous bloggers and even celebrities loved it! It became a rave at Souq Waqif Art Center, where I was stationed.
They loved taking selfies and videos of my handpainted footballs and posting them on social media. I was featured and interviewed by different international media channels. Commissions from all over the world kept coming until March 2023. It was a season full of fun and excitement. I'm so grateful that my art became a part of football history.
Madeth Escudero: I had a VIP client who asked me to paint 7 Hermès Birkin bags in one go. It was my first time painting or even touching an authentic Hermès bag, so I was really excited and nervous at the same time.
I wanted to give my best for the project, so I had to block two months of my work schedule to finish everything. Even though it was done a long time ago, I'm so grateful for my client because whenever she wears it or posts it on social media, she always gives me credit.
Madeth Escudero: People say I'm good at making portraits. But honestly, it's the most tedious and intimidating subject for me.
Madeth Escudero: I remember one famous quote - "choose a job you love, and you will never work a day in your life." Being a mom of two, my hands have always been full. But no matter how busy or tired I am, I always get my art projects done.
Painting is like a recharge for me; it brings me peace. My clients' appreciation, seeing them wear my art and posting them on social media are added bonuses.
Madeth Escudero: I worked in digital media for almost 10 years before my painting job. I did graphic designing, multimedia and web design. I also have knowledge in photography, beauty and creative makeup.
Madeth Escudero: Qatar is my second home. The majority of my custom projects showcase the beauty of it. I started creating Arab Eyes back then - people loved it, especially the tourists. Then, I transitioned to making the famous skyscrapers of Qatar, the people, the places, the symbols. I'm amazed how people value art and cultural heritage that they're willing to wear regularly.
Madeth Escudero: Creating and sharing art with the world is an ultimate dream. It's a great experience working with local and international clients. It is unbelievable to me to have their trust in sending their valuable items all the way to Qatar without minding the risk and the extra cost.
If I can continue making art for people until I get old, that's already a big thing. It's fulfilling to think that somehow, through my art, I'm able to contribute to people's lives positively.
Madeth Escudero:
Do you know of someone who has exceptional talent or is making a difference in our Qatar community? Drop us a line in the comments below and you could see them highlighted in our next Qommunity Voices!
Cover image credit: Madeth Escudero
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