Interview

• Tell us about your radical change of profession.

  It was a big change from city to rural life. My architectural experience was very rich but I just felt the need to connect more with materials during the production phase and not just see the final product. So, I searched for my path and finally found ceramics.

• Do you think you are influenced by your Portuguese origins?

  My Portuguese roots are certainly an influence. There is a strong tile heritage in Portugal with monochromatic tiles present in many Portuguese façades. My ceramic installations constantly question this tradition and its relationship with architecture and space.

• How does your work go beyond tradition?

  As an architect, my surface designs in tile making allow for experimentation and the discovery of new possibilities. I feel free to test the limits of traditional techniques used in local production and continue to search out new forms and invent new glazes.

• When do you know a piece is well made?

  When there is nothing to point out. It does not necessarily mean it has no mistakes. I actually think it works better when it is not perfect. I accept imperfections to a certain degree if the piece works well as a whole. At the end it needs to be a surprise.