Maria Pratas

Textile sculptor

©Filipe Correia

The eclectic collector

Maria’s artworks are a fusion of different natural materials
She collects bits and bobs that she finds interesting for future pieces
Her incessant curiosity triggers continuous experimentation

Maria Pratas is a ball of fire who manages to combine her full time job as a visual arts teacher for children with her own artistic path, as well as regularly giving and following workshops. A curious soul, she mixes textiles, natural fibres and wood to create eclectic sculptures using different techniques. “When I go out, I often come back home with a collection of logs, roots, pieces from abandoned wooden furniture or textiles that caught my attention.” It is in this veritable treasure box that Maria seeks inspiration when she starts a new piece. She shares the same exploratory attitude during her workshops, with the intention of simultaneously awakening and developing the artistic expression of each participant.

Interview

Where did your love for craftsmanship develop?: From my grandfather. He was like a renaissance man, an artist in a broad sense. The tools he touched literally became extensions of his hands. He loved working with wood but if needed he could create a leather bag. I only realised later but he was my master.
How important are workshops for your artistic development?: It is vital to share and learn with others. I recently followed a textile workshop in Brazil which has strong links with Portugal. These experiences go beyond the technical aspect and create strong emotional connections that awake curiosity and inspiration.
What techniques do you apply to your work?: I like to transform two-dimensional raw material into a volume, a texture or an object. Lately, I have embraced the coil basketry technique to create both functional and three-dimensional sculptural pieces.
What is the most important value reflected in your work?: It is fundamental to master the techniques of each craft. Knowledge comes from hours invested in learning. I don’t learn to repeat what is being done already, I learn to take a leap of faith.

Maria Pratas is a master artisan: she began her career in 1993 and she started teaching in 2012