MALVANO^TM was originated in 2003 by Monserrat Ramírez Albán, a Costa Rican designer, while studying at the Instituto Europeo di Design in Milan, Italy. Monserrat's vision was to infuse the biodiversity of Costa Rica into her designs creating products that captured both the beauty and uniqueness of her country. Upon returning to Costa Rica, Monserrat's idea came to fruition when she brought together her nature inspired designs with the resources she would need to bring her brand to market. Within a short period of time her products were recognized nationally by textile-design critics, the media, and popular retailers who requested more of her awe-inspiring products. Monserrat stays true to her love of art and design by continually renowned appearing in exhibits at the Museum oftextiles in Washington, DC and the LADF Bienal in Amsterdam in 2005.