Heather Ríos masterfully blurs the line between art and culinary craftsmanship with her hyper-realistic cake sculptures made from polymer clay, embroidery, and paint. Each piece is carefully designed to resemble classic confections, from simple cupcakes to elaborate multi-tiered cakes adorned with intricate details. By combining different materials and textures, she creates lifelike desserts that capture the indulgent charm of real baked goods. The delicate stitching of embroidery mimics the soft crumb of sponge cake, while layers of polymer clay are sculpted and painted to replicate smooth, glossy frosting. Her attention to detail results in whimsical yet strikingly convincing pieces that celebrate both textile artistry and sculptural finesse.
Ríos employs a range of techniques, including punch needle embroidery and hand-painting, to enhance the illusion of realism. The fibers of the embroidery replicate the airy texture of cake, while polymer clay is shaped into sprinkles, cherries, and intricate piping details. Each piece is often displayed on vintage plates with accompanying utensils, reinforcing the visual deception. Through her expert craftsmanship, she highlights the interplay of texture, color, and form, drawing inspiration from both traditional baked goods and contemporary fiber arts. Her work challenges perceptions, compelling observers to examine the boundary between reality and artistic interpretation.
Beyond their striking visual appeal, Ríos’s cake sculptures invite a deeper reflection on materiality and sensory experience. The combination of embroidery and polymer clay offers a fresh perspective on artistic media, pushing the boundaries of what textile and sculptural art can achieve. Her work not only captures the warmth and nostalgia associated with baked goods but also sparks curiosity about the creative possibilities of mixed media. By transforming everyday desserts into intricate, handcrafted illusions, Ríos continues to redefine the intersection of craft, sculpture, and hyperrealism.
in Bahia. 