Artist Statement

I was born in the city of Salvador, Brazil, in a historic region full of mysticism and symbolism due to the syncretism of cultures and religions from European, African, and native peoples. This diversity has shaped my artistic endeavors. My art works result from my fascination with Afro-Brazilian art and the influences of being raised in a costal city. Living in this country for many years has embodied my artistic perspectives to come to terms with my origins and to create an artistic archive of my cultural heritage. I create ceramic pieces to make my art the best language between me and my culture.

My ceramic pieces are mostly symbolic objects in diverse scales and assorted colors. I create vessels, totems, tiles, artifacts, and sculptures.  While creating, I look for an aesthetic relationship between my sources of inspiration. Clay has been the best medium for me to express this dynamic union. of inspirations. I employ labor-intensive surface treatments by using textures, organic shapes, distorted masses and blended colors. I am always experimenting with layers of glazes fired several times to create a unique palette.

Lately , I am observing nature more closely and feeling an intimate connection with natural elements, specially flowers and leaves. My interpretations of them have been shaped and glazed to symbolically fuse inspirations from the gardens, the ocean, and my native culture.