I am Dushka Semsch, originally from Lima, Peru. I lived half my life between Peru and the US. Studied Graphic Design in Peru and worked as a graphic designer in both countries in different periods of my life. My share of adventures started in the corporate world; focused in branding, brochures, logos and stationery. I later moved on to the social aspect of design, creating custom and personalized wedding invitations, stationery for adults and children.
After many years pursuing this, I got to love working with paper and started inquiring more about this world. I learned how to make handmade paper and that lead to watercolor. I was searching to create something more unique and personal.
In Peru, we have a vast spectrum of natrual resources. Pima cotton and baby Alpaca to mention a few. This research took me to wonder about art. I enjoy everything related to natural, handmade items and materials. Being lucky enough to travel the cities of Peru, I visited Cuzco, a city near the Urubamba Valley of the Andes mountain range. There, I met the most amazing animals. The Camelids!
“Camelid” is the name that refers to Llamas, Alpacas, Vicuñas and Guanacos. These noble and extraordinary animals live typically in the Andes. The cuteness of their features, the softness of their hair and charismatic personality motivated me to upgrade their sense of style! This was the incentive to create artwork that could combine different Peruvian materials and craftmanship.
After exploring with many products, I started painting these marvelous animals in watercolor technique over hand-crafted, 100% cotton paper and by doing so, making it environmentally friendly. Later to incorporate real baby Alpaca fibers in its natural state, by sowing them and creating their unique hair style. Once this process is done, each fiber or thread is carefully untangled creating a frizzy funky look.Then comes the styling part. Each hairdo is carefully cut and styled to give each one an authentic personality making each art piece a one-of-a-kind work. Watching each piece come to life, makes me love each part of the process.
And so, my journey continues!
