Jorge Carreira

Furniture maker

©Jorge Carreira

An exercise in experimentation

Jorge works with simple materials using a contemporary language
He works with glass, ceramics, metal, wood and even cement
Experimentation is key to his work

Born in Guimarães, Portuguese product designer Jorge Carreira first studied industrial design before taking a master’s degree in product design at ESAD in Caldas da Rainha. He is interested in processes and experimentation, creating his own designs and production, searching out materials and processes, and connecting with other designers and artisans. He loves to build an entire set of skills so he can become more autonomous and interactive, because his main goal is to have full control of what he does.

Interview

Your training is in design. When did you decide to become an artisan?: It was during my master’s degree, while taking part in glass workshops. The most memorable moment in my professional life was when I managed to open my own workshop, where I could freely develop my ideas.
Why did you choose to embrace craftsmanship?: I have always been interested in materials and how man can react to the industry with his hands. I do not master any specific techniques, but I am interested in several, and I have some skills in ceramics, glass, metal and wood, which are all materials that I often explore.
You also work with cement – what do you like about it?: Cement is a material that I particularly love, because by virtue of its nature, it frees me from kilns and allows me flexibility in construction. At the same time, when using cement I do not have to use counter-moulds.
What does the term ‘well made’ mean to you?: To me, well made is that magical moment when an error can make something exceptional. That’s why it’s important to always keep experimenting and never think that you have done everything you can; there is always one step to go beyond where you are.

Jorge Carreira is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2015