Who we are

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2025-03-10 13:35:41

Who we are:

Monica Ruiz-Ortega and Ricardo Flores-Kastanis

Monica holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic and Product Design and is the creative force behind Our Lady of Guadalupe Art and Made by Catholics. With over 30 years of experience, she has successfully developed art and product quality assurance systems while living and working in Mexico and China.

Her passion for education, combined with her background in Montessori schools, led her to design an art curriculum introducing culture and history through Mexican Folk Art to elementary children. She continues to use her expertise to create Catholic-inspired products that blend faith, history, and artistry.

Ricardo is an International Trade Consultant and Trade Specialist with expertise in product and supplier development. He has worked extensively in the United States, Mexico, and Asia, managing quality audits, designing training courses, and overseeing international trade processes.

Throughout his career, Ricardo has collaborated with major brands such as Levi’s®, Dockers®, and Disney, ensuring that manufacturers meet strict Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) standards. Fluent in English and Spanish, he has worked as a simultaneous business interpreter and negotiator for 35 years, fostering strong cross-cultural business relationships.

Our Vision

At Our Lady of Guadalupe Art LLC, our vision is to bring Catholic-inspired products, made by Catholics, to every person in the USA with the highest quality and a fair price.

For centuries, art has played a crucial role in spreading the faith, filling the gap left by illiteracy and language barriers. Religious art has stood as a testament to hope and security, shaping history and continuing to inspire generations.

We are committed to designing and manufacturing everyday items that not only carry the beauty of Catholic art but also serve as a means of evangelization. Each product we create holds meaning, bringing solace and happiness to those who receive it. With every item we put into someone’s hands, we reaffirm our purpose and strengthen our mission.

Our Mission

We believe that art has always been one of Christianity’s greatest evangelizers. It transcends barriers—language, education, and culture—allowing the Gospel to reach everyone. For thousands of years, art has been the natural medium to communicate faith.

Moreover, we believe that art is for everyone. It is a universal language that does not discriminate by age, ability, or background. Whether one creates or simply appreciates art, it has the power to inspire and uplift.

Our Core Values:

1. Respect for Religious Art: We meticulously research and revive historical Catholic artworks, always with deep reverence and an evangelizing perspective.

2. Visibility & Reach: Our products are designed to be seen by many in everyday life, ensuring Catholic art remains present in daily routines.

3. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): We adhere to strict human rights and eco-friendly standards.

4. Fair Pricing: We believe that Catholic-inspired products should be accessible and fairly priced.

5. Exceeding Expectations: Every product a customer orders online will always be even better than expected when received.

6. Meaningful Creations: Every product carries a message, ensuring that what we make has purpose and value.

Vertical Integration & Customization

From design to the final product, we oversee every step of production. Our vertical structure allows us to easily customize products, offering unique, high-quality Catholic-inspired items.

Commitment to CSR & Ethical Production

We uphold the highest standards of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), ensuring fair labor practices, eco-friendly production, and compliance with copyright and trademark laws.

Made in Mexico

We proudly manufacture in Mexico, offering competitive prices, low minimum order quantities (MOQs), fast turnaround times, and benefits like NAFTA import tax exemptions.