The modern shepherd
- André pursues Alentejo’s wood carving techniques
- He seeks to bring recognition to a rural craft
- His carved spoons pay tribute to shepherd artisans
André Panoias may have studied Design at the Faculty of Architecture in Lisbon but his heart and mind were set on returning to Alentejo to help improve the perceived value of rural crafts. “I started working with wood as a child with my grandfather and after spending time with him and other artisans I felt the need to do my part to preserve local woodworking traditions.” The carving techniques he uses to make his spoons are the same that have been used by shepherds in the fields for generations. André enjoys the daily touch and smell of wood. His profound respect for the surrounding nature and desire to take the necessary time to create well-made objects has guided this modern shepherd to bring local wood craft back into everyday contemporary life.
INTERVIEW
Évora is the capital of Portugal’s Alentejo region. This historical city was the perfect location to showcase my pieces made using local traditional techniques. In contrast, my workshop’s playful name Mal Barbado (badly bearded) brings youthfulness.
I started making spoons in 2018 during the final year of my master’s degree in Product Design. My studies have allowed me to use traditional chip carving techniques with axes and knives to create modern and functional wooden objects.
It needs to be beautifully designed and hand carved. All the processes from start to finish must be respected, such as using the oak or olive tree wood responsibly and ensuring that all people interacting with the piece are happy with the experience.
In Alentejo only old men above 80 years old continue to make objects with pocket knives in the street. By opening a professional workshop, I hope to revitalise the local shepherds craft and inspire other young people like me to follow this path.
