Rafael Zarazua

Rafael Alejandro Zarazua Rosales born 1985, in Guatemala City, Guatemala. He wants to embarked on a captivating journey through the phases of life with his collection of glass artworks, inviting viewers to reflect on profound themes such as birth, development, growth, love, and death. His whimsical...

Rafael Alejandro Zarazua Rosales born 1985, in Guatemala City, Guatemala. He wants to embarked on a captivating journey through the phases of life with his collection of glass artworks, inviting viewers to reflect on profound themes such as birth, development, growth, love, and death. His whimsical glass sculptures skillfully depict the emotional struggles inherent in the human experience, delivering a message of hope and curiosity.

Zarazua's professional journey began after graduating from Rafael Landivar University in 2009 with a degree in Industrial Design. He worked as an Industrial Designer in Guatemala from 2009 to 2013 before pursuing further studies. In 2013, Zarazua enrolled in the Glass Department at the Royal Danish Academy of Design, Bornholm, marking the beginning of his exploration into the world of glass art.

Throughout his career, Zarazua has honed his craft through internships at prestigious institutions such as Riksglasskolan Orrefors in Sweden and Studio Fresco in Japan. In 2016, he graduated from the Glass Department at the Royal Danish Academy of Design, Bornholm, and subsequently served as an Artist in Residence at Boda Glass Factory in Sweden.

Zarazua has exhibited his works internationally and has received numerous awards and recognitions for his contributions to the field of glass art. Notable exhibitions include the European Glass Context in Denmark, and the Bulgaria International Glass Biennale. In addition to exhibitions, Zarazua's works are featured in prestigious collections such as Svaneke Gaarden in Denmark, Boda Glass Factory in Sweden, and UniArt Gallery, New Bulgarian University in Bulgaria.

His artistic achievements have also been recognized in publications such as the New Glass Review 38 by the Corning Museum of Glass in the USA. In 2023, Zarazua was awarded the "Peace Medal" by the Ministry of Culture and Sports of Guatemala, further highlighting his impact on both the national and international artistic communities.

Zarazua continues to push the boundaries of glass artistry, captivating audiences with his emotive creations and contributing to the rich tapestry of contemporary art.