Ramiro Guarderas (b. 1960) is an Ecuadorian-born, Los Angeles–based interdisciplinary artist whose work spans sculpture, mixed media, woodworking, painting, and restoration.
With more than 30 years of experience, Ramiro is known for transforming natural and reclaimed materials into contemplative, textural works that explore memory, heritage, and the evolving relationship between humans and the environment.
Raised in Ecuador, Ramiro draws heavily from the landscapes, craft traditions, and cultural narratives of his upbringing. His sculptures, often carved from wood, stone, and found materials, combine organic forms with modernist sensibilities. Many of his mixed-media works reimagine the purpose and history of each material, inviting viewers to consider themes of permanence, impermanence, and renewal. His aesthetic is rooted in craftsmanship, material integrity, and a deep respect for the stories embedded in natural objects.
In addition to sculpture, Ramiro has extensive experience in fine woodworking, furniture-making, antique restoration, and painting restoration. His commitment to precision and craftsmanship has earned him a reputation among interior designers, architects, and collectors who seek custom, hand-crafted artwork for residential and commercial spaces.
Ramiro’s work has been featured in House Beautiful, Pasadena Showcase House, and several luxury hotel projects throughout California. His client list includes design firms, private collectors, and public figures who value high-quality, bespoke artistic work. Over the years, he has completed numerous commissions ranging from large-scale sculptural installations to custom furniture and mixed-media pieces.
Artist Statement
As an artist who challenges conventions and transforms the discarded into profound statements on life, my practice is a continuous exploration of existence, identity, and shared human experience. My sculptures and collages are born from the fragmented narratives of my past creations; I salvage scraps and remnants, recontextualizing them into new compositions with distinct characters. This act of artistic recycling mirrors the cycles of life, transforming the discarded into something resonant and new.
My paintings serve as a vibrant canvas for expression, ranging from sharp satire and potent irony to meticulous, realistic interpretations of life. These pieces often veer into the surreal, capturing a universal sentiment that transcends my personal perspective to touch a shared emotional truth.
In my abstract works, I find common sense in unexpected places, utilizing quotidian objects like empty glasses as media. The core of my philosophy is transformation; every form, every medium, can and must be reborn into another art form. Uniqueness is the cornerstone of my artistic ethos. My mind rejects the replication of existing ideas; my mission is to forge a creative path that is, essentially and unequivocally, mine, pushing the boundaries of creativity to explore new and uncharted territories of expression.