Aquetzalli
The word `Aquetzalli` comes from the Nahuatl language; its meaning - ‘Divine and sacred water’ - evokes the greatness of the liquid element as the origin of life; that which is "really important and transcendental."
Starting with her first publication, Universo Magico, Melisa Mijares launched Editorial Aquetzalli with a focus on creating watercolors and designs that connect people with nature and the world around them. Editorial Aquetzalli was the first iteration of what has since become Aquetzalli Art & Design.
This is where you've landed today.
Origins
MELISA MIJARES, founder, art & design
Hello! I'm Melisa.
As an artist, I have always been passionate about creating beautiful and functional designs that capture the essence of nature and bring a sense of joy and wonder to people's lives.
While studying graphic design, I honed my skills in color theory, composition and surface print design; however, I have been working in the field professionally for over 15 years.
I have a rich history as an educator as well; between 2006-present, I have been an educator of children as well as adults across language instruction, art education and technique, and most recently have been delivering online and in person classes for beginner, intermediate watercolor painting courses. I have been involved in art therapy projects, and collaborated on various painting-as-therapy initiatives in Mexico and the United States.
Following the publication of my first book - Universe Magico - a meditative coloring book in 2018, I launched Editorial Aquetzalli with the intention of creating an opportunity for people to connect through art. with nature and the world around them regardless of their age. Editorial Aquetzalli was the first iteration of what now has become Aquetzalli Art & Design.
It must be said again: I have a deep love for nature and the cosmos. For me, watercolor is a perfect medium to capture the beauty of nature: The intricate details of plants, of flowers, of landscapes - as well as those of the sky, the ocean and so much else. Creating art in all of its forms allows me to explore a range of colors, textures, and patterns; my art creates a sense of movement and depth - my intention is to bring life and energy to my designs and works.
PABLO SCHUHMACHER, operations, strategy
Hi, I’m Pablo. I’m a seasoned product leader with over a decade of experience in product management and strategy.
I didn’t realize until maybe 10 years ago that I’m a designer at heart; nor until then did I really realize that almost every problem, challenge, perceived barrier - whatever - is actually a design opportunity.
A little over a year ago when I met Melisa I was already more than burned out and it was something like magic for me to see her work - and even more so - to see her actually paint. And after spending time with Universo Magico, something shifted in me. I reconnected again finally with the designer inside of me. Together we’ve been able to crystalize a north star vision for Aquetzalli. It’s very special to bring my experience together with hers. I’m excited for what lies ahead. And looking forward to growing the team.
Our Story
Hello! We are Melisa and Pablo. Both of us have always had a special relationship with water - the ocean, rain, rivers - and the flow of its subtle and wild energy.
First, a serendipitous encounter in Mexico City; then the discovery of complimentary, if wildly different, professional experiences; and eventually - critically - together articulating our shared operating ethos as we connected the dots between our professional experiences, personal desires and where they converge.
Aquetzalli’s venture stands at the crossroads of artistic creativity and operational excellence. We believe in the art of facilitation - not just in bringing brand or client visions into focus, but in creating an environment where our network of service partners can thrive and contribute effectively to each project.
What drives us
Our mission is to make high-quality, engaging designs - and design experiences - accessible to brands of all sizes and ambitions. We want to simplify that process as much as possible, regardless of the scale or complexity of any given business' needs.
When we say "brand" we mean: businesses, people, startups, entities, organizations - whatever.
Our approach is holistic and based on your needs. We integrate our extensive professional experience with our network of service partners as needed to understand and actualize your vision - from the initial scoping of your vision to the final delivery.
We see ourselves as more than just a design firm or consultancy. We are architects of experiences, creators of patterns, and facilitators of brand stories.
Our Network + Experience
Our network of service partners includes architects, software developers, engineers, data scientists and manufacturers, complimenting our in-house expertise, and enabling us to deliver a full spectrum of experiential design services.
Our proven approach enables clarity and alignment up front, a path for delivery, aesthetic excellence and operational efficiency from the initial vision through delivery .
Join us on this journey
We're not just creating designs; we're crafting experiences, weaving stories, and building partnerships. We invite you to consider us on this exciting journey, where your vision meets our expertise to create something truly extraordinary.