In the leafy, historic town of Jiquilpan, nestled near the western border of Michoacán, a unique kind of artistry is quietly blooming—delicate, natural, and full of soul. At its center is Cyania Cortés Padilla, an innovative jewelry artist who transforms an ancient, organic material into contemporary, wearable art: the silkworm cocoon.
Cyania’s work is unlike anything else found in the artisan traditions of the region. While Jiquilpan is known for its jacaranda-lined streets and cultural legacy—including ties to muralism and national history—Cyania’s art adds a new dimension: one that draws from the life cycle of silkworms, sustainability, and the poetry of transformation.
Her journey began not in a formal studio, but through curiosity. Fascinated by natural fibers and biological processes, Cyania discovered the potential of sericulture—the cultivation of silkworms—for artistic creation. Rather than using silk thread for weaving, she became intrigued by the cocoons themselves, their textures, shapes, and quiet symbolism. What began as an experiment quickly evolved into a passion and signature medium.
Each piece of jewelry—be it earrings, necklaces, or brooches—is made from real silkworm cocoons that she carefully cleans, treats, dyes, and assembles by hand. The resulting works are ethereal yet resilient, often featuring soft natural hues or vibrant colors drawn from plant-based dyes. Her designs reflect themes of transformation, fragility, and growth, inspired by both the natural world and the human experience.
Cyania has presented her work at local artisan markets, cultural events, and eco-design showcases, where it draws attention for its originality and connection to the land. In a world increasingly dominated by synthetic materials and mass production, her jewelry offers a rare sense of intimacy and connection—each piece tells a story of metamorphosis.
While she embraces innovation, Cyania also draws from the spirit of Mexican craft traditions, particularly the values of manual labor, sustainability, and symbolism. Her creations echo the ethos of many Michoacán artisans: working with the earth, honoring nature, and making beauty by hand.

She is also passionate about community education, and often shares her techniques through workshops and talks, especially with young women. For Cyania, teaching is a form of empowerment—an invitation to reimagine what art can be, and who gets to create it.
“El capullo encierra un cambio,” she explains. “Me gusta pensar que mis piezas ayudan a mostrar ese cambio hacia algo nuevo y bello.” (“The cocoon holds a transformation. I like to think my pieces help show that change toward
something new and beautiful.”)

From the quiet corners of Jiquilpan, Cyania Cortés Padilla is making a name for herself as a modern-day alchemist—turning nature’s castoffs into art that is as meaningful as it is beautiful.
Her jewelry is not only a fashion statement—it’s a reminder that from silence, softness, and time, something extraordinary can emerge.

Feria Maestros del Arte 2024, 2025

ARTIST INFORMATION:

Constitución Poniente 41

Jaquilipan, Tepeyac, Michoacan

WhatsApp  353 104 9827

cyania1@hotmail.com

Facebook  De Capullo 

Instagram Cyania art