What inspires you?

Our cultural heritage and the artisans who are the guardians of ancestral traditions and techniques that help us understand our roots. Their stories, way of life, the way they relate to the raw material, the nature around them, the community in which they live, all of this is a starting point for the research that brings soul to the works I create.

Describe your creative process.

I travel to communities and villages like a blank piece of paper. I free myself from all the concepts and prejudices that society sometimes imposes on us so that I can be open to all stimuli and learn from artisans, their stories, techniques and ways of life. I photograph everything that catches my eye, I write down all the emotions I experienced and from then on I start doodling without worrying about creating something. Little by little the drawings take shape and when I see the piece it is there, ready to be born.

What are 3 words that best describe your work?

Authenticity, excellence, respect.

Who are some artists that have influenced your work?

Campana Brothers and Arthur Bispo do Rosário. In different ways, the freedom of their creations showed me that it was possible, whether because they wanted to escape the standards or because they didn't know they existed.

What is the most important tool when creating your work?

The artisans' hands and my hands. Besides my creativity that I allow to be free.

What is the best piece of advice you have been given?

"You are breaking a new path, it will not be easy because people tend to be afraid of the unknown. Don't take shortcuts or lose focus, move on and don't stop, Brazilian handicrafts needs you."

Where do you go for inspiration?

I feel inspired when I immerse myself in communities where I can experience the daily lives of artisans.