Daiana Ruiz's illustrations use abstract elements to create fierce portraits of women

Daiana Ruiz combines figurative and abstract elements to create harmonious illustrations of strong and diverse women. “I have always been aware of the lack of representation of real women in the media”, she tells us. “That’s why I would like to represent us as we are, with different body types”. The females depicted in Daiana’s illustrations are curved, strong and agile, a contemporary take on ancient Greek goddesses or Amazon warriors. “For me, a strong woman is a free woman, and I like to represent that concept”, she explains, and her figures stare straight at us, fierce and unwavering, challenging us to challenge them. We certainly wouldn’t dream of messing with them.

Daiana is inspired by Buenos Aires. The earth tones, fruits, plants and animals seep through into her illustration; there is a beautiful use of rich reds, peachy pinks and light browns. “I have learnt that to create is to let the senses absorb what surrounds us”, she tells us. “We have to be attentive with our senses so as to not lose any of them”. Her use of abstract shapes creates a sense of balance, a stillness that brings the figure to the forefront. They are placed as if in a heavenly world, celestial figures amongst vibrant but tranquil forms. The abstract elements complete the scene, but also offer up a unique experience. “I like to use colour shapes as a tool to communicate feelings”, the artist explains, and they certainly add a unique edge.

The artist is clearly inspired by fashion. “I live in the city, and I love that environment”, she tells It’s Nice That. “The lights at night, the music — I like to represent women living these scenes”. Her figures are incredibly stylish, dressed in minimal outfits, the material hugging and accentuating their curves, or falling loose and free. The clothes make up a key element of the illustration, adding a personal and familiar feel. We could definitely meet these women in our lifetimes, and we absolutely wish we could steal their clothes. “I think fashion is an art that allows us to design ourselves and express what happens in a specific time of our life”, she explains. Daiana’s illustrated women know what they want and who they are and they aren’t afraid to show it.