Why Zurich feels softer: Mariela Garibay’s marble messages of joy

Zurich isn’t exactly known for softness. Precision, punctuality, and a certain emotional restraint—yes. But softness? That’s where Mariela Garibay comes in. Her sculptures, carved from marble and bronze, seem to whisper something gentle into the city’s ear: joy is allowed here.

Mariela, a Peruvian sculptor whose work has been exhibited internationally, brings a rare emotional clarity to her pieces. Her figures are round, tender, and quietly expressive—like they’re holding a secret you already know but forgot to remember. Last night , at the Laureus charity gala, one of her sculptures was auctioned (and was sold for CHF 60’000, about 75’700 $).

Creating these pieces isn’t a breezy process. Mariela Garibay describes sculpting as a long, physical, sometimes frustrating journey. “I keep trying and trying until I get it,” she says. Whether she’s working with clay, bronze, or stone, the process demands patience and persistence. But what keeps her going is the belief that her work has a purpose beyond herself. “I’m not working for me,” she says. “The finished works will have a destiny, maybe beyond what I can know.” That kind of faith in the future is sculpted into every curve.

And speaking of the future—Mariela is an optimist. Not the naive kind, but the kind who chooses to see light even when the world feels dim. “I refuse to accept that the darkness of the world doesn’t allow us to see the beauty of human beings,” she says. Her sculptures are reminders of that beauty, of the small gestures of kindness and love that happen every day, even if they don’t make headlines.

She also believes art is still underestimated for its healing power. In a world that moves too fast and talks too loud, art invites us to pause, breathe, and feel. “It touches our soul,” she says. “It elevates our spirit.” She wishes we were taught from childhood to observe the small details—a flower, the light on leaves, the shape of clouds—because learning to see is the first step toward learning to love.

Three reasons to be optimistic (according to Mariela Garibay)

1. Kindness is still happening, even if it’s quiet
Every day, people show love, solidarity, and sacrifice. We just need to tune in. Her sculptures are like antennas for that frequency.

2. Art is a soul-stretching pause button
In the chaos of modern life, art gives our emotions a chance to breathe. It helps us reconnect with what matters—and with ourselves.

3. Making something with your hands is an act of hope
Sculpting is hard work, but it’s also deeply fulfilling. Mariela believes that creating something tangible, with care and emotion, is a way to send light into the world.