More than a designer, Perla Valtierra defines herself as a ceramic apprentice.

Her passion for learning various Mexican techniques, ranging from ceramics to pottery, has led her to constantly seek to expand her practice in places such as Chihuahua, Zacatecas, Oaxaca, and Guanajuato. Never satisfied, she has traveled to Japan, Belgium, and France with the intent of continuing to experiment with the different techniques that characterize these cultures. She currently resides in Mexico City, where her quest to explore new creative pathways continues unabated.

This collection of collectible pieces is inspired by the Mexican object with over 8,000 years of history: the molcajete. The word Xalli means "sand" in Nahuatl, referring to the fact that the pieces are produced in sand molds.

Her innovative profile and curiosity about artisanal techniques led to the transfer of her practice to glass design at Nouvel, where she began developing Xalli in 2018. This collection of collectible pieces is inspired by the Mexican object with over 8,000 years of history: the molcajete. The word Xalli means "sand" in Nahuatl, referring to the fact that the pieces are produced in sand molds. The technique used is reminiscent of ancient Egypt and is called "sand casting," where glass is deposited and blown into a mold previously marked in the sand. Its artisanal production and the unique texture left on the surface make these pieces truly singular.

In conclusion, we can say that the almost mystical combination of two techniques constitutes Xalli. On one hand, sand casting is an ancient technique that supported the material and economic life of Egyptian civilization. Similarly, the molcajete served as both a kitchen tool and ceremonial vessel for indigenous peoples. Perla Valtierra’s ingenuity has allowed for the reinterpretation of traditional Mexican pieces into a new language that reflects the passage of time and the enduring utility of objects.