Our color palette is made in the studio from local plant materials and the cochineal insect. Under the guidance of Maddalena and her assistants, we develop special hues and saturations for each custom project.

At Madda Studio, we use natural dyes following the logic of color theory. Cochineal (red), indigo (blue) and marigold (yellow) are our primary colors. By mixing them, we obtain secondary colors: green, purple and orange. Following this logic, we get infinite variations of color by combining natural dyes in different proportions. Our vibrant palette arises from a complex process of superimposing colors.

Different shades of color are ‘built’ through successive baths. By introducing other natural materials, such as lime, we create further variations. This ‘building’ method of color development allows us to develop intricate hues and greater depths of color. Each project presents unique challenges that inspire us to continue experimenting and discovering new shades.

All of the materials we use at Madda Studio come from certified local producers or are recycled from waste. Our cochineal is sourced from a local farm in Oaxaca; our indigo comes from Isthmus of Tehuantepec, in the southern part of the state of Oaxaca; and we collect our marigolds from altars after Día de Los Muertos celebrations in November.