INTERVIEW WITH MARCOS VALENZUELA TIBERIUS

Designer Marcos Valenzuela Vienna

Marcos Valenzuela was born in Colombia, Marco dreamed of becoming an Opera Singer, but everything changes when he met the love of his life and transform Tiberius into a successful Fashion House.

His first experience with fashion, he had it with 17 years old, He studied Fashion Design and parallel he also studied Dance and singing. He realized he didn’t want to do fashion anymore but to be on the stage.

A friend invited him to visit the Vienna  Conservatory, and he continues with his music and dance studies, till he met the love of his life, who is the owner of Tiberius and Marco transforms the fetish-shop into a Fashion label.

We met Marcos and spoke with him about his creative process in Tiberius and how this romantic story began.

For those who don’t know you, talk about your background.

Born in Bogota-Colombia, based in Vienna since 1999. I´m a fashion designer, an opera singer, and a dancer. For 11 years I’ve been the creative mind behind Tiberius.

When did you know you wanted to be a fashion designer?

My passion for fashion came quite early… I come from the generation influenced by MTV, beauty pageants (a Typical for a Latino) and obviously the amazing Barbie… my first muse.

What’s it like being in the Fashion industry?

It is like a ride in a roller-coaster… You know that you love that kick, the adrenaline, and the emotions… During the ride, there are moments with high and lows, unexpected turns, the moment you ask yourself…WHY did I choose to ride this ride??!? But in general, the movement and risk making you feel alive.

What was your first job in the fashion industry?

Oooooooh, dear…  Designing Prom dresses for some girls from my generation… ages ago!

Talk about the changes in your life since you’ve taken as a designer in Tiberius.

The biggest change and by the way the most difficult change is leaving my life on stage.  I couldn’t imagine that being a designer takes so much time. My days start at 5 am and end at 10 pm. I actually enjoy each second of my life and everything I do for my label.

Describe what do you do in your work?

I create, organize, plan, communicate, work with my hands and enjoy taking care of my clients. I will say I’m an all-rounder at Tiberius.  And above all, I have fun at work!

What do you like about your work?

I believe Fashion is communication… Fashion is the possibility of communicating worldwide with clothing, accessories, colors, and textures… this is something love of being a designer. I’m blessed for having a job where I can observe and give a statement. To express my feelings not using words but using this amazing language, Fashion.

What advice would you pass along to those starting out in the Fashion Business?

Your product should be honest and authentic. Take time to discover who you are…but try not to hear with your ego, but with your heart.

What inspires you?

Inspiration is a moment, an impulse: therefore here are some things that give me energy and pleasure:  dark chocolate, music, a long run, and a good chat, flirting and a magical smile.

How do you see Fashion in Austria?

I see fashion in Austria with respect and gratitude, I feel extremely happy not being born in Austria and being considered as an Austrian designer.  As a businessman, I see a lot of potential in the market.

Is there a big difference between Colombia and Austria?

In my opinion Yes and No. Yes because the socio-political, historical and geographic situation influences a country and its people. No, because the expectations and individual ground necessities from all human beings are all the same all around the world.

What defines Tiberius?

Tiberius is sensual and desirous, ironic, provocative and a little bit romantic.

How is your creative process?

I am a structured person. I start with the Theme. Then I study, I try to get information to create the basis of the collection. Then when my head is full of information, I draw and then my team and I, we start to experiment in the pattering and texturing till reach our goal.

Which word describes better your clients?

Tiberius Clients are sensual and desirous, ironic, provocative and a little bit romantic individuals. They love details and quality.

How do you describe yourself?

I`m a positive, disciplined, happy romantic person, who enjoys details, laughter and chocolate muffins.

In which project are you currently working on it?

Can’t tell is a secret! Hihihi!