

Textile artist Yasmin Mora creates work that invites viewers to engage with the past, present, and the emotions that shape our lives.
How would you describe your profession and your practice?
I am a textile artist and designer whose practice weaves together cultural heritage, emotional expression, and contemporary design. With a focus on natural materials, my work explores the intersection of tradition and modernity. Through the art of tufting, I create textured, large-scale pieces that convey a sense of movement, transformation, and connection. My practice is shaped by my Chicana roots, drawing inspiration from ancestral crafts while embracing the fluidity of contemporary life. Each piece is an invitation to engage with the past, the present, and the emotions that shape our lived experiences.
Has your work changed over the course of your career?
Yes, my work has evolved over time. My technique has become stronger, allowing me to create finer lines and more dimensional depth. This evolution has enhanced the texture and complexity of my pieces while maintaining the balance between tradition and contemporary design.
What was your “eureka!” moment that made you realize that art/design was the route you wanted to take?
My “eureka” moment came when I realized that design could be a way to reconnect with my roots, express my identity, and support local communities. While in Oaxaca, the vibrant textiles and their cultural significance ignited a passion in me to create and leave my tech career behind; to craft art that was not only a reflection of my roots but also a bridge between the past and present.
Is your work inspired by anything in particular? What turns you on creatively?
My work is inspired by Mexican colours, architecture, and cultural traditions. I blend these elements with contemporary design to create textiles that tell stories of family, resilience, and identity. Drawing from my Chicana heritage, I merge the richness of my cultural roots with modern expression, celebrating the beauty of both worlds in every piece I create.
What is the name of the DesignTO Project you’re exhibiting in and what is the name of the piece you are sharing?
I will be showing textile work in the exhibition ‘Dwell’ at Toronto’s Union Station.
What can attendees expect to experience when seeing your work?
Attendees can expect a tactile journey that invites reflection and connection. The vibrant colours and rich textures of my textiles offer a pause from the fast pace of urban life. Made from traditional Mexican wool and contemporary tufting techniques, each piece encourages touch and provides both visual and physical comfort. The scent of naturally dyed wool adds to the experience, evoking a sense of calm. My work transforms the energy of travel into moments of mindful introspection, fostering a deeper connection with the art and the natural world.
How long have you been involved with DesignTO?
This is my first time participating in the DesignTO Festival.
As DesignTO gets ready to celebrate its 15th birthday, why do you think it is important to the creative community, here as well as abroad?
I believe it’s important that DesignTO connects emerging talent with established designers while also hosting a celebration for all participating artists and designers. It creates an environment for artists and designers to connect, collaborate, and inspire each other, fostering growth within the creative community.
‘Dwell’ is just one of over 100 free window installations, exhibitions and events at the 2025 DesignTO Festival, January 24 – February 2, 2025. Visit the Festival Schedule to learn about these projects and more.