PTteam - The blog

Featured Member - Trincar Uvas - My Favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 11:00:00 +0000

by Joana Pedroso aka Trincar Uvas

How difficult it is too choose between so many wonderful shops?!

Western Glass

Always loved the beautiful work of Brian Western, in particular the falling leaves made from repurposed wine and beer bottles.

Golden Wine Bottle Glass Ginkgo Leaf by westerartglass

Toino Abel

I urge you to and discover the story behind these wonderful baskets.

Traditional Portuguese Basket. Number 4. by Toino Abel

Portugal Pop

Portugal Pop gathers a great variety of vintage Portuguese products that remind me so much of my childhood.

Vintage Horse and Carriage Tin Toy 1970s by Portugal Pop

Joana Rosa Braganca

Joana’s work always makes me smile - I love the quirkiness, the bright colors and the humour.

Portuguese Bathers // wine & guitar by Joana Rosa Braganca

The Nature of Clay

I find incredible all the detail João manages capture in his door clay sculptures.

Typical portuguese Ceramic Door by The Nature of Clay

All photos credits are of the artists.

Meet the Members - Miniatures Forever

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Wed, 30 Oct 2013 18:55:00 +0000

Here we have it. The last interview of the "Mentor Month" series.

Now we have fellow team leader Ana Anselmo aka "Miniatures Forever" and a very detailed and tiny furniture for any miniatures aficionado!

Come along. :)

Dollhouse miniature bedcover patchwork Christmas decoration by Miniatures Forever

Name: Ana Anselmo aka Miniatures Forever
Shop: http://miniaturesforever.etsy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Miniatures-Forever/137868286291530
Blog: http://miniaturesforever.blogspot.com/ and http://foreverfabrics.blogspot.com/

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Ana Anselmo, I am 58 years old and I live in Prior Velho, a little village just outside of Lisbon. I am a biologist, with a PhD in Biotechnology and I work full time in a public lab as a senior researcher.
I love miniatures and home decor, so I decided to put both things together and make all the things a home needs, but in 12th scale. For my husband it was just like a dream, because I stopped moving all the furniture around the house!
One of my specialties is the reproduction in 12th scale of popular Portuguese furniture, namely the hand-painted Alentejo furniture, the typical Portuguese folk-art. This furniture is still done and used today, with great success either for children rooms or guest-houses or hotels rooms in Alentejo.
I design and make my furniture pieces based on a careful search of the building elements and motifs used in the popular Portuguese furniture and all are unique pieces, made and painted entirely by hand, built in high quality wood, some of them with real joinery.

Ana seat weaving one of her tiny chairs - Miniatures Forever

What made choose this craft (art)?

I really don´t know, I didn't think “I am going to do miniatures”, everything happened almost by accident. I started with a dollhouse kit, as many other miniaturists, and I tried to make my own pieces. And step by step I was improving my skills, finding my own style a path I am still doing, and that will never end…..

Why sell on Etsy?

In the beginning was just a matter of price, comparing with ebay, where I was selling before, fees are much cheaper.
However, it turned almost like a passion; I love to sell on Etsy and to be a member of this community. I never thought that I could find so many friends and I really love to belong to the PTteam.

The chairs - 12th scale hand-made and hand-painted Portuguese typical painted furniture by Miniatures Forever

What do you find most inspiring?

That is a very difficult question to answer!
For me the inspiration comes from books about folk-art, decorative painting and real pieces I find in the internet. I always have several books in my bedside table, which I read before sleeping!

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

I learned a lot, to teach something it is very important to look carefully to every topic that was discussed during the “Mentor Month”. I also learned from the experience of all the participants which was much diversified. It was a great experience, which I will try to reflect in my own shop.

Dollhouse Miniature Typical Portuguese Hand-painted Furniture - Dinning Room by Miniatures Forever

What do you like to do with your free time?

Because I am still working, with a full time job, I must confess that what I like to do in my free time is miniatures! I never have enough time to do all I have in mind…

12th scale dollhouse hand-painted trays by Miniatures Forever

All photos by Ana Anselmo aka Miniatures Forever.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Meet the Members - Little Creatures

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Wed, 30 Oct 2013 16:08:00 +0000

And we arrive to the last day of "Mentor Month" interviews.

Hope you've liked this series of interviews and meeting our members.

Now we have Inês Fonseca aka "The Little Creatures".

She has wonderfully detailed little clay creatures to show us.

Come along. :)

Bat brooch inspired by Almada Negreiros by The Little Creatures

Name: Inês Fonseca aka The Little Creatures
Shop: http://Thelittlecreatures.etsy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Little-Creatures/234165149968578
Blog: http://www.thelittlecreatures.wordpress.com/

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Inês and I am an archivist and a crafter living in Scotland. I am passionate about both things: the role of archives in our lives; and about the process of creating something new using my hands. I started working with polymer clay as a hobby when I was a teenager and for the past 2 years it has become a part-time project.

Inês Fonseca aka The Little Creatures

What made choose this craft (art)?

I was very lucky to grow up surrounded by makers, my mother being an artisan. I have always loved crafts and when I was 15 I discovered polymer clay. It combines the modelling capacities of clay with colour and it has the major advantage of not requiring much equipment... mostly your hands and imagination!

Why sell on Etsy?

I discovered Etsy a little by accident and I must say it was a very happy one. There were some artists I knew that had shops on Etsy and I started exploring. At the time I was still in Lisbon and I was doing a few craft fairs. I was getting a lot of good feedback from people on my work so I decided to give it a try.

Madame Berthe's mouse lemur by The Little Creatures

What do you find most inspiring?

This is a really hard question: I love being surrounded by nature and by history. At the moment I am amazed by the changes in the colours of the leaves and by the afternoon sunlight. But I am also the kind of person that can get lost in Flickr and EOL discovering creatures and plants from all around the world.

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?
I think other people mentioned this before but usually working in the creative sector as a maker can make you feel quite isolated. I thing the process of sharing was the most important thing for me. It was a great way to see that most of the issues I face (or have faced at some point) are common to other people. I definitely think that we should come out more as community, being more cohesive and supportive, but also to build confidence in ourselves.

Berry Birds Post Earrings by The Little Creatures

Name a person you find inspiring and why?

I would elect Jane Goodal. She has spent her life doing an amazing work as an anthropologist and she also has a huge role in environmental conservation issues. Her life story is truly inspiring but I was recently surprised to know that though she is almost 80 years old, she is still working actively in what she believes.

All photos by Inês Fonseca aka The Little Creatures.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Featured Member - Trincar Uvas - In My Studio

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Mon, 28 Oct 2013 11:00:00 +0000

by Joana Pedroso aka Trincar Uvas

Hi there and welcome to my studio (again!).

It’s been almost a year since I last showed you my workspace. Since then I moved my table to another corner of our attic and I am really happy with the new setting. It’s cozy and for the first time I have everything in one space.

I use this corner for everything! Not only to store materials and make new pieces but I also use the brick wall as a background to my photos. It’s great to have a nice big window close by, even on rainy days I manage to take one or two good shots.

But I also work outside of this space. After I decide which materials to use, sometimes I put everything on a tray and sit on the couch. I also put wheels on one of my drawer cabinets so I can easily move it around.

I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into my workspace. If you ever come to the Netherlands you’re welcome to come and visit!

Text and photos by Joana Pedroso aka Trincar Uvas

Meet the Members - Ligia Rocha

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Fri, 25 Oct 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Big Flower Cocktail Ring by Ligia Rocha

Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/LigiaRocha

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LigiaRochaJewelry
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/ligiarocha/

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

Hello! My name is Ligia Rocha and I'm 52 years old.
I live and work in Oporto.
I studied at the Fine Arts College of the University of Lisbon. Then I had the opportunity to study goldsmithing at Soares dos Reis School and it was then that I found myself.
When I started my studies of goldsmithing, I started also making jewels to sell to my friends.
I sold, during many years, jewels in stores, art galleries, and museums, and I participated in individual and collective exhibitions in Portugal and overseas.
I like simple things. I'm a person that enjoys the simplicity of life.

Ligia Rocha

What made you choose this craft (art)?

I always enjoyed making accessories and working with the hands. I always studied in art schools and when I got the chance to take a course that enabled me to touch the materials, I fell in love; it was then that I realized what I wanted to do for the rest of my life: jewels!

Why sell on ETSY?

I sell on etsy because it is an amazing platform to make known my work at the same time that I'm selling.

Big Cocktail Ring with stone Leopard Skin Jasper by Ligia Rocha

What you find most inspiring?

The inspirations comes by what is happening with me at the moment.
The inspiration comes when I seat at the table and explore the materials and shapes that surround me and then I transform them into jewels.
Sometimes I follow projects like trying to find inspiration on the drawings of my nephew.

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

It was a very enriching experience that allowed me to give a new breath to my store; and I also thank my Mentor a lot, for the help!

"DAD" Mens Cufflinks in Sterling Silver by Ligia Rocha

What do you like to hear from your customers?

What I like to hear from my customers is when they tell me that my work is beautiful, that is what gives me more strength to go on, and also when they tell me that what they bought is precisely what they wanted.

Brooch by Ligia Rocha

All photos by Ligia Rocha.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Meet the Members - Pavios & Parafina

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Fri, 25 Oct 2013 10:00:00 +0000

Nutshell eco-friendly soy wax Autumnal Forest scented candles by Pavios & Parafina

Name: Luísa Lavado
Etsy shop: https://PavioseParafina.etsy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PavioseParafina
Site & Blog: http://pavioseparafina.weebly.com/

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?
Hello everyone, my name is Luísa Lavado and I am the crafts(wo)man and candlemaker behind Pavios & Parafina.
I am a cat lover that enjoys photography, reading, watching movies and swimming. I am also a science project manager.

Luísa Lavado aka Pavios & Parafina

What made choose this craft?

Several years ago I bought a candle making kit for the fun of it and to make original Christmas gifts, then it became a hobby and I offered my creations to friends and family and finally it became an idea to create candles with new and unique (I hope and try) designs. For sometime I sold my candles to friends and acquaintances until a moment of unemployment lead me to open my shop on Etsy.

Why sell on Etsy?
I found Etsy through a photographer with a shop, after exploring it I though it was a great option to follow, back then there was no equivalent to an online market in Portugal. Although some changes have been implemented and even though I disagree with several of them I still think and believe that Etsy as a crafts handmade online market is the best option to show my wax creations internationally.

Halloween Candle Collection by Pavios & Parafina

What do you find most inspiring?
Life, cinema and books. It may sound clichê and probably is but my inspiration has its roots on moments shared with family and friends, on the great story tellers also known as Cinema and Books, hence the Cinema & Book Collection.

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?
Schedule! I need an app to add hours to my days.
Now, on a more serious tone, the mentor month helped me a lot, now I have a better idea of the changes I need and want to make to my shop, the need of establishing a calender and smart goals for the months to come. To be realistic, after all I am a part-time seller, and ambitious enough.
I have to give my most profound thank you to Ana Ribeiro who not only helped me with my goals for the month(s) but also sent me lots of reading material and asked how my work and my evolution were going and gave me great advice.

Flame shaped cinnamon scented beeswax candle by Pavios & Parafina

What do you like to do with your free time?
If my budget allowed travel the world and photograph it, but on a smaller budget I love to relax while reading, watching a movie or a series, and to have fun by gathering family and friends around the table for a great meal!

All photos by Pavios & Parafina.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Featured Member - Trincar Uvas - Gallery of Work

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Thu, 24 Oct 2013 10:00:00 +0000

Today we bring you a gallery of inspired work by Trincar Uvas as part of the "Featured Member" series.

In here you will find her textile jewelry, with varied inspirations from tribal to geometric, always modern and always beautiful.
Every piece unique.
Enjoy.

White Rope Necklace by Trincar Uvas

Modern Tribal Triangle Earrings by Trincar Uvas

More Earrings by Trincar Uvas here.

byzantinum collection by Trincar Uvas

Soft Bangle Wrapped in Ombre Cotton Thread by Trincar Uvas

More Bracelets by Trincar Uvas here.

Custom Color Geometric Spirograph Necklace by Trincar Uvas

Crescent Moon Pendant Wrapped in Cotton Thread by Trincar Uvas

More Necklaces by Trincar Uvas here.

See more of her work at Trincar Uvas Etsy Shop, on her facebook page or on her site & blog.

Next Monday we will bring you a post of the series "In my studio" by Joana Pedroso. Stay tunned for an inside look at Joana's work space.

All photos by Trincar Uvas.

Meet the Members - The Fabulous Creations of Maria Filipe

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Wed, 23 Oct 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Handmade needle felted brooch Blonde Doll by The Fabulous Creations of Maria Filipe

Name: Maria Filipe Castro aka The Fabulous Creations of Maria Filipe
Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/MFFabulousCreations
Facebook: facebook.com/pages/The-Fabulous-Creations-of-Maria-Filipe/183336985043252
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/mfilipecastro/
Behance: www.behance.net/mariafilipecastro
Blog: mariafilipecastro.tumblr.com/

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Maria Filipe Castro. I have a degree in Fine Arts – Sculpture.
I love colorful things, people with lots of sense of humour, singing Fado, watching old Hollywood films and musicals, playing with my nephews... hummm... and I couldn't imagine going trough life without doing what I love the most: create.

Maria Filipe aka The Fabulous Creations of Maria Filipe

What made you choose this craft (art)?

It began in college, in my last year I decided to make soft sculptures using fabric. Since then I'm always searching for new ways to transform textiles, a two dimensional material in three dimensional objects. My personal challenge became to transform the objects or images I adore into wearable sculptures.
Creating jewellery and accessories seemed a very interesting, challenging and amusing way to do it!

Why sell on Etsy?

Since I've left college there was one thing I've always wanted: having my own online shop! At the time it seemed to be an over complicated thing to until one day a friend of mine told me about this online marketplace called Etsy. So I've decided to give it a try. I've opened the shop in 2010 but only recently I have been able to work full time on my shop.I couldn't be more pleased with the experience. It's hard work but you have an opportunity to be included in one of the biggest online platform for makers. The fact, that the support team helps the sellers trough the hole process from presenting the products, publicizing it to finnally selling it. Made me choose Etsy to start selling online.

Needle and water felted Banana Bracelet by The Fabulous Creations of Maria Filipe

What do you find most inspiring?

Objects in general...I have a special attraction toward food in all materials and shapes, some people may even call it a mild obsession about it... but I also love children's toys, toy art, fashion, contemporary jewellery... My inspiration comes when my eyes for some reason get drawn to a certain object or a detail in it, that I feel the need to transform into wearable pieces adding my personal view.

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

I've been part of the PTteam for a while, but I wasn't a very active one. I just didn't know how to start. The Mentor Month seemed the perfect opportunity to change that and to build a closer relationship with the other members and at the same time improve my seller skills. I must say that the result was very positive! Having as Mentor a more experienced seller giving me his personal opinion and advice was a great help. Thank you Pedro Vieira (Alfamarama) !!

The feeling that remains is that now I am part of a community of Portugal related sellers that share knowledge and want to help each other. Thank you PTteam!

Little Town Road Felted Bracelet by The Fabulous Creations of Maria Filipe

Name a person you find inspiring and why?

JC de Castelbajac, a french fashion designer. He makes me feel that I am not alone. He is always surprising in his approach to clothes or the accessories he presents in his collections. He designs pieces where he explores the Pop culture with its inherent imagery with lots of sense of humour, color, interesting forms and always in a very stylish way. A true visionaire!

All photos by Maria Filipe Castro aka The Fabulous Creations of Maria Filipe.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Meet the Members - Ema's Corner

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Wed, 23 Oct 2013 10:00:00 +0000

Name: Ema de Freitas
Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/EmasCorner
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmasCorner
Shop Blog: http://emadefreitas.tumblr.com/

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

I'm Ema, from Funchal, where I'm currently living and working. I have lived 16 years on the north of Portugal and almost 7 years ago I've decide that it was about time to see the SEA every single day again…

I'm a psychologist and a professional trainer, so my craft couldn't be more distant from my training and schooling, what can I say?! I'm vegetarian (that's why I don't use leather in my creations), I love animals specially cats (got 6 furry, fluffy friends), I love travelling around the world, color (pretty obvious if you visit my shop), good sense of humor… And so many other things!

Decorative pillow with felt fishes by Ema's Corner

What made you choose this craft (art)?

Honestly, I didn't choose, it happened! Almost a year ago I decided to make my own Christmas ornaments (I LOVE Christmas), because I wanted something different. As I have always enjoyed one particular traditional fabric from Madeira Island, I began making some Xmas balls with it and then came the felt embellishments and one thing led to another.

My project is not only my wish to bring people closer to one traditional fabric from Madeira Island, by designing nice, unique handmade pieces with this material, but it is also a lot more than that.

Green burlap clutch with red heart by Ema's Corner

Why sell on Etsy?

I had heard about Etsy sometime ago, and what was appealing to me, then, was this: “Handmade will always be the heart of Etsy”. So, it seemed to be the perfect place to open an online shop, because all my creations are handmade by me! Etsy is still a great place to find unique, handmade pieces, meet people, change ideas, and learn.

Fabric Bag with face felt appliqué by Ema's Corner

What do you find most inspiring?
When an idea comes to life! So may of my creations, end up being very different from the original idea, and that is to me, very interesting. Also sometimes it can be quite frustrating when I cannot give life to an idea. In those cases I find myself looking for solutions and waiting for the right time… Overall, it has been a very enriching process and there are still many lessons to be learned!

Red and blue butterflies' decorative pillow by Ema's Corner

You were involved in the “Mentor Month” program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

Being involved in the ”mentor month” was very important because a learned a lot and there was a lot of help from Ana Anselmo, my mentor, to whom I thank again for the time, the commitment, for sharing her experience and reading my emails… There are still a lot of things to be done because I didn't have the time to make all the changes. But this is a work in progress!

Name a person you find inspiring and why?

I cannot name just one person, because there have been many people that inspired me in the past, as well as there are a lot that are inspiring me at the moment. They do come from different branches of knowledge - human computer interaction, architecture, photography, just to mention a few, and this allows me to learn a lot.

At the end, I believe it's because I still keep my sense of wonder that I can find inspiration in everything and everywhere.

Creating is never a lonely process

All photos by Ema's Corner.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Featured Member - Trincar Uvas - The Interview

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Mon, 21 Oct 2013 10:00:00 +0000

Hello!

We are back with the second in-depth interview of this month.
We bring you "Trincar Uvas".
Beautiful textile jewelry. Colorful, geometric and tribal inspired, this is what you find in her shop.
Just take a look. :)

Ombre Tribal Earrings by Trincar Uvas

Name: Joana Pedroso
Etsy shop: Trincar Uvas
Site & Blog: www.trincaruvas.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/trincaruvas

1.Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

My name is Joana. I am a portuguese girl living in the Netherlands where I’ve come 6 years ago to study. Meanwhile I met my boyfriend, many great friends and decided to stay here, but very present in my heart is the dream of going back South. I feel the happiest amongst Nature, Art and Friends.

Joana Pedroso aka Trincar Uvas

2. How and when was this creative passion born?

I can’t really pinpoint an exact time. I always loved art and felt very strong about everything visual. As a teenager my room wasn’t full of band posters, but of art prints and postcards. I followed the Art branch in high school and I played a lot with different mediums. But somehow I didnt feel I had enough new ideas to follow an Art or Design Degree, so I decided to stay close to Art by studying Conservation and Restoration. Some years ago I made my first bracelet and I finally felt like I was doing something original, something of my own. In a way I feel I’ve been brewing creativity for a long time, but it was only with Trincar Uvas that it truly came out.

3. What was your formal training in? Do you find it helpful for your business? In what way do you find it helpful for your business?

I studied Conservation and Restoration of Paper and for the business side of things its not really that helpful, but I’ve certanly taken other things from it like attention to detail and loads of patience.

4. Is this your fulltime job or do you have another job?

I work freelance as a paper restorer and sometimes I will work other jobs here and there. This month, for example, I am working in a hotel and maybe next month I’ll be a nanny. It’s pretty chaotic, but I always try to keep these jobs to a maximum of 2 or 3 days a week, so I can have enough time for Trincar Uvas.

5. How did this project start?
Trincar Uvas started when I made a bracelet for a friend. I had such great pleasure making it and was very pleased with the result. Once the first bracelet was done I had so many ideas and I haven’t stopped since then.

Necklaces by Trincar Uvas

6. What inspires you?

My style is definitely inspired by ethnic and tribal arts and crafts. My parents always travelled a lot and the house I grew up in has always been full of objects they’ve collected on their travels. I guess a lot of that has seeped into me and my work.

When it comes to each single piece I am very inpired by the materials I find. A special thread or a vintage brass component can be the starting point of a piece.

7. How do you choose your materials? And where do you find them?

Like I just said, materials are a big part of my inspiration. I choose them for their texture, color and history. Most of my threads I buy from textile artists that I find on etsy, second hand markets or in a local embroidery shop. Recently I’ve been also playing with beads - these I find in bead shops and sometimes i also find old necklaces and take them apart for single components.

Most of my metal components are from vintage or dead stock origin. I feel they transfer all their past history into my work giving it more depth.

8.Could you share a typical work day?

That’s a very difficult question! It really depends. When it comes to Trincar Uvas I tend not to have a routine. Every part of the day can be used for different tasks. I usually wake up early and do all the computer related work in the morning and leave the afternoon and evening for practical work, like making pieces, taking photos or going to the post office. I can also be a night creature and if i have an idea in my head banging for a couple of days I stay up late working on it.

Necklaces from the new collection by Trincar Uvas

9.What is your favorite part of your work? Why?

My favorite part is finishing a piece (I’m always in love with the last piece I’ve made). But jewelry only makes sense when its worn, each piece is only truly finished once it finds its owner. I love seeing people wearing what I make and seeing my creations come to life.

10. Why did you open an Etsy shop?

I’ve been an Etsy buyer for many years and I always knew that when I opened a shop it would be on Etsy. It’s such a great platform for all these makers to connect and share their work and I am happy to be a part of it.

11. What do you think are the benefits of belonging to a team like the PTteam?

I treasure all the support I get from the team members. Running a business from the back of your computer can be a lonely task sometimes. The support we give each other is priceless, either promoting each others work or just talking about our frustrations and successes.

12. What do you do to promote your work and shop?

Promoting my work is something I am still trying to figure out - it’s not something I’m really comfortable with. (I still make the rookie mistake of not having business cards with me!) I use social media like facebook or pinterest and I’ve kept a blog for a long time even though it has been quiet for a while. I am also working on a new website focused more on my jewelry.

Dangle Spikes Necklace by Trincar Uvas

13. What advice would you like to share with fellow artists or crafters or vintage sellers?

Don't make your dreams a goal - keep realistic goals in short/medium term and let your dreams free to drive you.

14. What do you find most inspiring in Portugal?

I love the diversity of natural and cultural landscape from South to North. Of course I love the people and how polite we can be. But I couldn’t forget about our melancholic soul drenched in the atlantic ocean.

15. Where do you see yourself and your project in 5 years?

I imagine a studio with big windows, a garden with vegetables and flowers growing outside, new materials and inspiration, new creations and a bigger audience. I see the sun and perhaps mountains and the sea, and most of all I see many friends and family stopping by for a quick chat or a long homemade dinner.

Thick Rope Ombre Bracelet by Trincar Uvas

16. What would you take with you if your house was on fire?

I would try to grab all these little trinckets I have collected during the years or were passed down to me by my mother and father. I bring these things with me wherever I go and once I lay them around I know I’m home.

Quick fire questions. Your favorites:

Book: L’Ecume des Jours from Boris Vian
Movie: Bufalo 66 from Vincent Gallo
Music: Uri Caine interpreting Mahler in Primal Light/Urlicht
Artist: I refuse to pinpoint one!
Food: Grilled fish with sea salt and olive oil.
City: Lisbon
Country: in my heart, Portugal and in my dreams Madagascar

All photos by Joana Pedroso aka Trincar Uvas.

Meet the Members - Alfamarama

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Sat, 19 Oct 2013 18:00:00 +0000

'still saving for my van gogh' print by Alfamarama

Nome: Pedro Vieira
Etsy shop: http://Alfamarama.etsy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alfamarama
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/alfamarama
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Alfamarama

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

Hi my name is Pedro, I am an ex-architect and I have created Alfamarama about a year and a half ago. I am from Lisbon but I live in London most of the year so I try to keep my business running between both places. Sometimes I'm even successful. lol

Pedro Vieira aka Alfamarama

What made you choose this craft (art)?

I was tired of working in architecture offices where everyone else makes the decisions for you. I wanted my own project, something to channel my creative self that would fulfill me and keep me excited!

Why sell on Etsy?

Etsy seemed the perfect place to sell my designs and, despite being a bit mischievous these days, I still think it was the best decision. Etsy is an open door to the craft world and much more than an online shop, as we all know so well in PTteam!

my new year's resolutions notebook by Alfamarama

What do you find most inspiring?

I get inspired by daily life, anything from a walk somewhere to an exhibition or a chat with a friend can trigger a new idea. Sometimes nothing triggers them and they just happen. I always make them feel welcome. lol

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

I loved helping my mentee Maria Filipe. I enjoyed giving something back after being on the receiving end so many times.
As for me as a mentee, well... I was rubbish. I was too busy last month so I am only now asking my mentor Ana Ribeiro for help. I truly believe that feedback from others is very important as you stop noticing things yourself after a while. I still have a massive list of things I need to work on in my shop but acknowledging the problem is half of the solution right!?! I will address that list until the end of the month.

Unique Happy Birthday Card by Alfamarama

Name a person you find inspiring and why?

I find our Ana Ribeiro truly inspiring. I keep thanking her over and over while wondering how can she do it? How can she help everybody, manage PTteam impeccably well and still find time to work on her Arte e Luar and have a personal life!? Ana's generosity is inspiring and shows how much you can achieve with passion and hard work. I am passionately grateful to her, as I believe you all are too! Thanks Ana !

All photos by Alfamarama.

For an in-depth interview with Pedro Vieira, Alfamarama, see our "Mentor of the Month" series with Pedro last May.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Meet the Members - ScrapCati

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Sat, 19 Oct 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Apple Green Leather Bracelet by ScrapCati

Name: Catarina Martins
Etsy shop: http://www.ScrapCati.etsy.com
Website: http://www.ScrapCat.net
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/scrapcatacess
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/scrapcati
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/scrapcati

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

Hello everyone! I'm Catarina from Portugal, passionate about kids, nature, colors, people, materials to create fashion accessories in my yarn workshop and so many things, I'm a woman of passions :) I like especially to use buttons covered by me, fabrics, some new some recycled, wool felt, Portuguese cork, genuine leather, silver plated findings and recycled paper in my creations of jewelry, fashion accessories and gift embellishments.

Recicled fabric hand painting Bag Hanger Hooks by ScrapCati

What made you choose this craft?

All my life I have loved to create and experiment with new materials. Fashion accessories and jewelry Have always been my favorites. From a very young age I have created many accessories for me, for friends and later for shops and crafters. When I see a new material I always see if I can make a jewelry piece, a happy fashion accessory or a simple button.:) So this craft makes me happy!

Why sell on Etsy?

Because it allows me to have customers worldwide and to meet wonderful people from all around the world! :) It also allows me to meet new artisans and buy great and unique pieces from other crafters. Selling on Etsy inspires me everyday!

Fabric Buttons Collections by ScrapCati

What do you find most inspiring?

The most inspiring for me, at this time, is my little girl, but life always inspires me, colors, nature, a simple scent or image, a raw material, a happy moment, people...

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

I think the most important thing was to meet other crafters and their own experience, to have their opinion and help to improve our customers experience with us.

Girl in Pink Fabric Brooch by ScrapCati

What do you love to hear from your customers?

I love when my customers share their joy with me in emails, it always brings a smile to my face. Those are the things that keep me doing what I do, it's a very satisfying experience and one I wouldn't trade for anything. :)

ScrapCati's Gift Wrap and Packaging

All photos by Catarina Martins aka ScrapCati.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Meet the Members - Risko Design

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Fri, 18 Oct 2013 17:30:00 +0000

ET - Sterlingsilver Pin by Risko Design

Nome: Francisco Rocha
Etsy shop: http://RiskoDesign.etsy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Risko-Design/195747233808446

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

Hello, I'm Francisco Rocha. I'm 26 years old and I'm an Electrical Engineering and Computer Science student. I'm a person that likes a lot to think in various subjects, for it is by thinking and especially by thinking deeply that we arrive at insightful solutions that may improve not only our life in itself, but also relationships with others and our way of seeing the world. I desire above all things wisdom; loyalty and fidelity, I wear them like a necklace. In people around me I value kindness and goodness and all the good things that are done with sincerity and simplicity.

What made you choose this craft (art)?

It's not like I chose this craft; it's more like it was a little ability that I had, that developed along time by practice.

Original OOAK Illustration ink drawing by Risko Design

Why sell on Etsy?

Etsy is a marketplace with great growth and development; with great artwork, great opportunities and great reliability, therefore it is an artist's better first choice for selling his works internationally.

What do you find most inspiring?

The thing that I find most inspiring is the saturation of the mind, from which I withdraw great ideas and also from which I withdraw sense; although it may sound strange and also unnatural, I can assure that it is not. Like it is from the ground that we extract diamonds and from the soil that we extract gold, likewise, for me, it is from chaos that I extract order, and from confusion that I extract meaning.

Mens Cuff Links by Risko Design

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

The most important thing that I took from “Mentor Month” program was the ideas and advice that I received from my Mentor which were of great importance for me, because they sharpened my awareness of peculiarities about selling on Etsy and also because they opened my eyes to stuff that I was not sensible to. That is why I'm very thankful to my Mentor, and her availability for helping me out.

Name a person you find inspiring and why?

A person I find inspiring, I may also say the most inspiring is Jesus Christ, because his way of living, and his love of others, which I read about in The Holy Bible, inspires me everyday to think better, do better and be better, towards myself, others and God.

Letter H Pendant by Risko Design

All photos by Risko Design.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Meet the Members - Helena Rocio Janeiro

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Fri, 18 Oct 2013 15:00:00 +0000

olha lá! by Helena Rocio Janeiro

Nome: Helena Rocio Janeiro
Etsy shop: http://HelenaRocioJaneiro.etsy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Coração-o-Ditador/648469705182610
Blog: http://coracao-o-ditador.blogspot.pt/

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Helena Rocio Janeiro, I live and work in Porto (Portugal) since 1992. I studied fine arts and my "Coração o Ditador" series (in English - The Dictator Heart) is an ongoing project. I've been working on this series since a year and a half ago and the feedback has been very positive urging not to give it up.

What made you choose this art form?

I studied fine arts and in recent years I found in the collages my preferred form of expression. I can tell you that I have a lot of fun with it.

atelier of Helena Rocio Janeiro

Why sell on Etsy?

My work has been exhibited in a few galleries and shops and I decided to open my Etsy shop to also share it with you all.

What do you find most inspiring?

I believe everything that surrounds us and has some meaning to us becomes an inspirational source. This can be something really simple (and most of the time even pathetic) or a lifetime event.

bla bla bla (trés exotique) Unmounted by Helena Rocio Janeiro

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

"Mentor Month" was really important to me. I could learn all the basics about Etsy and I had the precious help from someone who knows much about the site and already has a very successful shop.

What do you love to hear from your customers?

I love how people can relate with my pieces on a personal level and that they have fun with all the details and hidden messages.

"não fazemos o que queremos mas no entanto somos reponsáveis por aquilo que somos" ( Jean Paul Sartre) collage by Helena Rocio Janeiro

All photos by Helena Rocio Janeiro.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Featured Member - BERTH handmade - My Favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Thu, 17 Oct 2013 09:51:00 +0000

by BERTH handmade

Nuts for Paper

Because the books and the bookmarks are beautifully decorated and are excellent to note ideas that I have for my creations.

Trio of Patterned Notebooks by Nuts for Paper

Pukaca

I love to tell stories and there’s no child who does not like to hear them, classic or contemporary tales, with monsters or princesses, dragons or hunters, all are a pleasure to hear.

Little Red Riding Hood Paper Finger Puppets by Pukaca

PÚRPURA

Handmade soaps transform the bath into a moment of pleasure, by the gorgeous smell, softness and beauty they have.

Chocolate and Orange Soap by Pukaca

Menina Inclinada

I love the sardines, the swallows and the houses of Aveiro, traditional elements of our culture with a modern image.

Junior sardine lavender sachet by Menina Inclinada

Fric de Mentol

I love the artistic representation of the four seasons and how nature appears in Ana’s work.

Thorny Plant III - lavender sachet scented pillow by Fric de Mentol

All photos credits are of the artists.

Meet the Members - TANGRAMartworks

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Wed, 16 Oct 2013 17:00:00 +0000

Ana Almeida aka TANGRAMartworks

Nome: Ana Almeida
Etsy shop: http://TANGRAMartworks.etsy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TangramArworks

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

Is there a more difficult question than this one?
I am Ana Almeida, a Portuguese graphic designer and trainer, living in Reading, England. I love to laugh, love, learn, live.

Abstract Precious Stone Geometric Print by TANGRAMartworks

What made you choose this craft (art)?

I don't really consider that I had to choose...
Always wrote, draw & painted on every surface I had in front of me. I had a big dream: being a Communication Designer! Never wanted to be anything else...

I've always wanted to create images, so I think there was a small step for me to go from Design to create my digital art.

Why sell on Etsy?

Since I graduated from Fine Art School, I've worked as a designer, solving problems, selling products, following guidelines... on a magazine, a newspaper, varied companies... in early 2007 I found that I also loved to be a trainer, sharing my knowledge and teaching a variety of subjects from Hand Drawing to Photoshop courses...

Suddenly I had the urge to make my own business, the compelling need to create what I felt like, to pass the line between design and art, being more intimate to myself and with my needs and wishes... TANGRAMartworks was the obvious name for a person who always loved puzzles, playing with colors and geometric shapes to create a bigger picture.

Precious Stone Surface Geometric Art Print by TANGRAMartworks

What do you find most inspiring?

A beautiful sunset moment, an old touching movie, a tender gesture from a mother to a child, a wonderful landscape, a brilliant new music I heard on the radio, people...

In short: Life!

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

I was so lucky... I had the most expert of the Mentors, Ana Ribeiro aka ArteeLuarBookBinding, she is non the less our PTteam Captain. It was a great honor being tutored by her, every one of her teachings were of an absolute relevance. I loved knowing her better too...

Gift Wrap by TANGRAMartworks

What do you like to do with your free time?

In my free time, I always cherish to spend quality time with my family and friends, visit old churches and monuments, stroll around every museum that is within my reach...

All photos by TANGRAMartworks.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Meet the Members - Aurea Praga

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Wed, 16 Oct 2013 14:12:00 +0000

The Rat Mask Ring - Animal Shadows series

Name: Aurea Praga
Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/AureaPraga
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Golden-Plague-Aurea-Praga-/318848965720

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

Hi! Well, I was born in Madeira Island, spent my childhood in Brazil, my teen years in Viseu, came to Porto to study Communication Design and stayed here since then. Nowadays, I dedicate most of my time exploring (more like struggling with) relations between illustration and jewellery, for I’m in love with them both.

experiments - Mea Culpa series

What made you choose this craft (art)?

I think I’ve always been a storyteller trying to find my way to communicate. As I suck in writing, drawing is a much easier tool for me to do that. Jewellery came later, as a result of my visual ideas, using the body to add meaning to them.

Mea Culpa earrings (photo: Mané Pupo)

Why sell on Etsy?
I decided to open my Etsy shop when I was ready to show my work worldwide. Etsy offers you a vast audience of buyers that would take years for me to acquire in a personal webshop. It allows my work to reach places where I’ve never been in person, and that’s a great feeling!

adding japanese lacquer to a few rings - I'm All Ears series

The Lac Kitten - I'm All Ears series

What do you find most inspiring?
I guess human nature is my main source of inspiration. I often use animal references and other nature elements as well, but it’s always connected to human feelings, our needs, our joy, our disappointments… I think my work is a process to understand those feelings.

Denial - Grief series

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

Selling on Etsy can be a pretty lonely activity, mostly when you don’t have the time to take an active part in the community. During the “Mentor Month” program, I used my shop as an example for many topics and realized it could use some improvement too, hehe.

What do you love to hear from your customers?

My customers feedback is quite important to me, it can light up my day in a second. It’s a strong motivation that keeps me going when I’m feeling down. Lately, one of the comments that really touched me says “I love it so much it hurts”. Isn’t that worth all the effort?

The Fox Mask Ring - Animal Shadows series

All photos unless otherwise stated on the photo are by Aurea Praga.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Featured Member - BERTH handmade - In My Studio

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Mon, 14 Oct 2013 10:00:00 +0000

by BERTH handmade.

Weekly, I go by stores like "Antiga Drogaria" in Sintra...

Antiga Drograria

... and "Tricot-Lãs" in Mafra...

Tricot-lãs

... to see what's new and get inspired for new creations.

After having purchased the supplies, I put them on my desk and start the selection of the most appropriate colors and accessories.

Selection of fabrics

knitting needles and notions

Having chosen all the elements...

I start working with full commitment and passion, as these are characteristics of mine.

Sónia aka BERTH at work

My creation is advancing and pride increases.

Finally, when the piece is finished I photograph it as best as I can, so as to do justice to its quality.

Photos by BERTH handmade.

Meet the Members - Whittle by Design

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Sat, 12 Oct 2013 16:00:00 +0000

We're back with one more interview in this series.

Now you'll get to know one of our newest members, the jewellery designer Sara Whittle and her shop Whittlebydesign.

Enjoy!

Avant Garde necklace by Whittlebydesign

Name: Sara Whittle
Website: www.whittlebydesign.com
Etsy shop: Whittlebydesign.etsy.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/whittlebydesign
Blog: whittlebydesign.tumblr.com

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/whittlebydesign
Instagram: http://instagram.com/whittlebydesign

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

I'm a tea drinker, haircut hater, a food lover, a salsa dancer and a movie fanatic who lives in the South of Portugal.

Necklace by Whittlebydesign

What made choose this craft (art)?

I studied fashion design in England and then I internship with Ann-Sofie Back and Fred Butler (Acessorize designer). I guess that was the moment I thought I actually didn't want to be a fashion designer. So I moved to my homeland Portugal after graduating where I did my last internship with Valentim Quaresma a conceptual jewellery designer. Working with him made me realize the importance of the branding surrounding a business.

Meanwhile making clothes kept me returning to accessories and I started assisting a few stylists who were asking me to make custom pieces for editorial shots. One year later I opened my own brand.

There is something really amazing about making accessories. People invest in things that have an impact in terms of fashion but aren't as expensive. Today with the immeasurable amount of materials that you can choose to work with, combined with technology you can have excellent results.

Why sell on Etsy?

Etsy it's not only a place to sell beautiful things, it's also a big social network. This means that it's better way to promote my work and to make sales.

Geometric prespex pendant by Whittlebydesign

What do you find most inspiring?

I get inspired by things that I see (sometimes random things) from travelling etc…

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

In overall it was a very good experience because I had the chance to improve the flaws that my etsy store had (like tag words) and to talk with other “etsians” about their own personal experience.

This changes during the Mentor Month also provided me more sales and followers.

Necklace by Whittlebydesign

Name a person you find inspiring and why?

Ivania Caprio is my ultimate muse. She is the blogger of love aesthetics, I really adore her because not only she makes beautifull things, I love her minimal, functional style.

All photos by Whittlebydesign.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Meet the Members - Mrs. Pepper

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Sat, 12 Oct 2013 10:00:00 +0000

Today we start with a member that has been referred to in another interview, Susana and her shop Mrs. Pepper.

Here you'll find beautiful jewelry and purses and much more. :)

Enjoy!

Charm silver necklace with flowers by Mrs. Pepper

Name: Susana Duarte
Etsy shop: http://MrsPepper.etsy.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SusanaDuarteJewelry
Site - http://mrspepper.com/

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?
I'm Susana, I’m from Lisbon, Portugal and I’m a graphic/web/jewelry designer and a passionate crafter.

Mrs. Pepper comes from my married name (pepper means pimenta in portuguese) and it's a symbol of who I am, it reflects our cool and funny family life outside the big city of Lisbon.

Susana aka Mrs. Pepper

What made you choose this craft (art)?
I love tools and making stuff with my hands and I always wanted to make jewelry, I started in 2003 and I never stopped experimenting new ways, new designs and techniques.

All my jewelry is totally handmade using traditional techniques in sterling silver, copper, enamel and semi precious stones.

As for my designs I always try to keep it simple with both geometrical and organic shapes.

Kiss lock coin purse in Pink and orange by Mrs. Pepper

Why sell on Etsy?
Etsy is a good way to conquer the world, you can reach a far more big number of people, and the sense of community in Etsy is awesome, there are a lot of people that think like you, that love crafting instead of buying. For me crafting will be the revolution of our time and I want to be a part of it!

Mrs. Pepper studio

What do you find most inspiring?
I find inspirationin everything... in nature, in my daily life, my kids, the web... I think we are all sponges and think that our work is a sum of all our experiences, all you have to do is:

1) keep an open mind!
2) be willing to explore new ideas!
3) stop thinking you are not capable of doing something!

Bird silver enamel necklace by Mrs. Pepper

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

Is great to interact with our mentees that gave us the great honor to have opinions on their brands, is also very good to have someone else’s fresh look on our brand as well, someone that looks with a buyer’s eye.

Mrs. Pepper Jewelry Tools

What do you like to do with your free time?
I work full time in a ad agency, so this is what I do with my free time, besides crafting, making jewelry, sewing, crocheting (and soon tricoting) I love baking, hang ou with my family and friends, see exhibitions in wonderful Lisbon and sometimes travel and meet new cultures and new crafts!

All photos by Susana Duarte aka Mrs. Pepper.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Meet the Members - Mirtilio

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Fri, 11 Oct 2013 16:00:00 +0000

We're back with one more interview of this series.

In this one you'll meet a felting crafter, a maker of wonderful tiny creatures, Annette and her shop Mirtilio.

Enjoy. :)

Moose Pair - Felt christmas decoration by Mirtilio

Name: Annette Reis
Etsy shop: http://mirtilio.etsy.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/mirtilio

Hello, Could you tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Annette, I am a German architect living in the Algarve with my husband and two little kids.
I have been always connected to crafts mainly everything to do with sculpting especially with clay or paper machée, lately discovering endless possibilities of felting wool.
I find fascinating what you can turn the raw fibers to just using an archaic technique that was found centuries ago. It gives a wonderful inspiring and relaxing contrast to our technical world and connects to disappearing nature.

Annette aka Mirtilio

What made you choose this craft?

I dont know anymore if I found the felting wool or if the felting wool found me.

My granny already told me how she used to have two sheep during war times and what wonderful things she did with the wool from fillings for their beds to yarns and how long they have last. She used to knit beautiful doll clothes, jumpers, blankets as well
My mum since early childhood has the need always to be wrapped in pure wool and actually she passed this on to me, though I have difficulties in Algarvian summers to do so.

I am still fascinated what you can do with this material just by using either a needle or water, soap and your own mere hands and can’t get enough to experiment.

Due to my family business at the moment I focus on soft sculptures mainly animals that are inspired by nature, as I can fit it best into my everyday life rhythm.

Probably my father has a big influence here, as he loved everything about nature and made beautiful animal studies, planted lots of trees and made us spend a lot of time in the forests.

Why sell on etsy?

Etsy is a great opportunity to reach people who like unique handmade items and to meet other artisans.

I am not only happy to have my own shop but also can’t stop being amazed with genius arts and crafts you find here.

Needle felted Mouse - Christmas ornament by Mirtilio

What do you find most inspiring?

The material itself with its wonderful colors and haptic is the main inspiration. I like to feel it in my hands and then usually naturally evolves what is just in the air.

My children are as well a great inspiration with their enthusiasm and 1 to 1 view of the world, in such a honest wise and naive way.

It might be from my architectural studies but I am in love with lines and curves and shapes. I am convinced that there is some special mystery how they work together how they express themselves.

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

Running an internet business is really serious and needs quite a variety of skills.

The mentor month was very helpful to understand and structure the necessary steps to manage your shop and especially to build up your own brand. Surely this is a continuous process that will stay for the next few months.

Finding a wonderful team spirit was a great experience too and as crafters are often just a team of two hands I think it is essentially important to connect and support each other.

Owl ornament by Mirtilio

What do you love to hear from your customers?

When I sell in fairs I can see the glance and happiness in children and adults eyes. Here in etsy we don’t have this direct feedback and I am always happy to know if my creations were giving a smile to its new owners and bring happiness to their homes as they bring to mine.

Hedgehog pin brooch by Mirtilio

All photos by Annette Reis aka Mirtilio.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Meet the Members - CALMAstore

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Fri, 11 Oct 2013 11:53:00 +0000

Here we have one more interview in this series.
What do you think so far? Isn't it great to get to know so many creative people and who is behind so many beautiful things?

Now we will meet an artist, a creative that as so many things to share. Welcome to world of Nena and her shop CALMAstore.

Enjoy!

Crochet necklace white lace and cork and Rings from the collection i loves you CORKy by CALMAstore

Name: Nena M.
Etsy shop: http://CALMAstore.etsy.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Calma.alma.alma

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

Hi. I'm Nena M.. It's a petit nom with which I identify very much. There was a time when I created pseudonyms, as an excuse to venture into various fields of knowledge simultaneously without losing the thread.

The name Nena had been given to me before, by a friend, and it was when I stopped wanting a family of pseudonyms that I adopted it as the main signature for my work also.

I am a dreamer and a poet, I like metaphors because they are the best form of truth (each of us realizes them his/her way) and usually I understand various points of view to the same issue. I have a super power (that's right! :) What's yours?) – I learn languages really easily. I believe everything in my way has raised that question of communication and of sharing knowledge. Not so much as a master ,but as a companion.

To me the world is one, science is art and poetry; art and poetry exist to speak of accuracy and truth. The origins are our safe harbor.

Nena M. working at the studio - CALMAstore

What made you choose this craft or art?

This art wasn't really a choice; indeed no art in my life was a choice but happened as a natural path. My body has known where to go and I have not contradicted because it feels right this way. I always feel so lucky when I realize this!

I come from a family of artists and people who live culture in their daily life. So Art is a natural living, it is a logical path both emotionally and intellectually.

I started by studying classical music as a child and learned at the same time the love for literature. My plan was to study music in Vienna, be a judge and be a writer…and everyone thought I would continue that path. It was when I started painting that I understood that, first of all, I would have to go through the Fine-Arts; and I'm glad! The Academy opened very different horizons and it was there, in the end of the course, that I understood what my path was. It had to do with roots and the origins.

I learned millennial arts with incredible people, studied passionate theories, between science and poetry. I had amazing experiences to date – sculpture in stone brought me stonework, religious geometry and later the therapeutic work with crystals; traditional pottery led me to work in Poland and to learn a lot with the sculptor José Aurélio in a very magical land; at Chiado I live things in first hand for more than a decade, now; the handcrafts my maternal grandmother and then my mother and paternal grandmother taught me, have completed the circle. They've presented me artisans and cute grandmothers, all very talented. With them I learn the art of sharing little but very important things; and this is something that doesn't happen in the Academy, for instance.

Crafts worked as Art make all sense to me and I'm very thankful for having been able to open my academic horizons through fire and earth. Ceramics. From the earth and back.

Holly Green Wool Necklace with thimbles by CALMAstore

Why sell on Etsy?

Esty is a recent world to me and it was a bit like the Fine-Arts' decision – I'm glad I made it because it brought me new worlds. I learned that I love things I had left asleep like photography and design. I've been researching about the last and finding so much genius talent!... Internet brought us the possibility of knowing all this incredible work, at home. Although in loco will never be replaced by the screen, this one helps a lot.

Etsy is precisely one of the places that contribute to this state of things. When we want something handmade, we don't google it, we Etsy it!

I chose Etsy because some of my friends and colleagues were using it. I liked the layout and when I realized how many people put their work there I got crazy.

Today, one year later, I'm very pleased that my debut was on Etsy and not another platform. Not only because of what I listed but mainly because I learned a lot about selling, both online and offline, got the courage to present myself at fairs (it had never occurred to me before) and started studying marketing little by little. I realized that it is much more interesting than I thought! A unique asset of Etsy is what brings me here today – PTteam. The teams that arise are extremely important in the daily life of a small business, especially for a debutant like me. The support I've had on the Portuguese PTteam is immeasurable. We are a team of mutual support and that says it all.

Mel is the model for Slow Fashion made by Calma. Here with two Thimble Scarves, handmade exclusives by CALMAstore

What do you find most inspiring?

Travelling. Sometimes even small journeys, like the daily ones, put my creativity on fire.

However, I must say that inspiration doesn't come from the sky. Obviously there are things that turn my system on immediately and sometimes almost in catapult – a ballet, a bombastic exhibition, a poem, someone's walk in the street, a smile, a phrase out of the ordinary, a concert, first experiences (whatever they are)… - but the best way of finding inspiration is working.

To work in this field, one needs to be Greek and contemplate. Can you call it inspiration? It's a phase of the project. A full head doesn't create, a soul full does. For completeness it is necessary, as we know, certain conditions that do not always come together when you have unstable income. It is complicated and I don't think it is possible to create without steady revenue (you try because you feel the need but the good stuff comes when you're happy and fulfilled).

Calma Studio

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

Etsy's Mentor Month came in a really good timing for me. I rebranded and changed the image of my work and took the program to make the necessary changes in the shop. This remodeling helped me settle what I wanted from my work and the brand that introduced it. I feel much more apt to receive my clients and treat them as I like to be treated. I'm going to spoil them!

However, this wasn't the only thing it gave me. The experience of being in an online group which is focused in the same dynamic for 4 or 5 weeks, creates an energy of evolution that's very powerful; the companionship was very healthy and the experience extremely positive. I thank my colleagues at PTteam and hope in the next activity we can all meet in person!

Name a person you find inspiring and why?

I've never been much for idols, maybe because I always felt my role models were very near to me, at home and amongst friends. I really am a fan of the people I love and surround myself with. I find them extraordinary for very important human details.

This Summer I had the opportunity of – sometimes unexpected miracles happen – meeting the one I consider to be one of the best Portuguese artists ever. A lady that goes by the name of Lourdes de Castro. I found that she is a very special human being and surrendered completely to that serenity. This lady is a landmark of world Art; she worked and was related to some of the most respected artists of this time (well, I wasn't even planed when she started but I'm here now and so is she, so I can say we are all from the same time).

Her work is humane but almost nearly out of this world. It gives us that chill that even those who “don't know a thing about Art” – as I sometimes hear people say – feel. When something is good and speaks to us in a language that goes beyond the body and is intimately connected to it, we all know it is right. Lourdes de Castro makes it look as easy as breathing – a simple complexity.

The way she worked is an inspiration. I am thrilled whenever I realize how lucky I was for meeting her, being able to witness her. I hope I can give back to the world the light she inspires me.

I leave you with my translation (I couldn't find the text in English) of an excerpt of the exhibition where I met her. Enjoy :)

Nothing simple comes from simple.

Nothing happens by the action of a unique isolated cause.

So that a result manifests itself a combination of elements is necessary.

The effect isn't but a combination of multiple causes: it doesn't have any

Existence of its own, distinct from the causes that engendered it.

Prajñāpāramitā

All photos by Nena M. aka CALMAstore.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Featured Member - BERTH handmade - Gallery of work

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Thu, 10 Oct 2013 18:45:00 +0000

Today we bring more beautiful things to delight you.
A gallery of BERTH handamde's colorful and amazing work in the Featured Member series.

In here you will find something for baby, for you or for your friends.
Come and take a look!
Enjoy.

Japanese Dolls baby dress by BERTH handmade

2HEARTS baby dress by BERTH handmade

More Baby Dresses.

CHUBBY the pig pillow by BERTH handmade

HYPE the hippo pillow by BERTH handmade

Blue dots Cloud Pillow by BERTH handmade

More Pillows.

ROSY infinity scarf by BERTH handmade

More Snoods and Scarfs.

See much more of her work at her Etsy Shop, on her facebook page or on her blog.

Next Monday we will bring you a post of the series, the "In my studio". Stay tuned for some inside view of her work place.

All photos by BERTH handmade.

Meet the Members - Nuts for Paper

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Wed, 09 Oct 2013 16:00:00 +0000

We're back with one more interview.

Now you'll meet one of our newest members, or should I say two of our newest members, its a team effort, a collective, illustrators Mafalda e Catarina and their shop Nuts for Paper.

Enjoy!

Ilustrated Cookbook Notebook by NutsforPaper

Name: Ana Mafalda Fernandes and Ana Catarina Lopes
Etsy shop: NutsforPaper.etsy.com/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/NutsForPaper
Blog: nutsforpaper.blogspot.pt/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NutsforPaper

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

Hi, we are two friends (and friendly) designers, both named Ana. Born and raised in Torres Vedras, Portugal, since 1989, we measured 1.65 m, our shoe size is 37,and no, we are not twins (as you can clearly see in the photo).

We are two creatures who crossed each others path in 2004 when we went to the Visual Arts course at Henriques Nogueira High School and since then we've been best friends with a huge passion for design, illustration and typography. In 2007 we graduated High School and each one followed different paths, without losing connection.

The oldest Ana, older by 3 months and 13 days, is best known by Mafalda, she is a curious by nature, with a slight obsession for chocolate chip cookies and books. Very determined and sure of herself, she decided to head to Lisbon to study Design at IADE, accompanied with her notebooks and sketckbooks, which she cannot live without. Always ready to go in search of new cultures, in 2011 she decided to do Erasmus in Germany, from where she brought a few more souvenirs to add to her collection of postcards and recipes. If she was an animal it would be a blue elephant. Her memory is fallible, but in that the other Ana complements her.

Excellent memory, British punctuality and clumsy every now and then, that's how Catarina is known for. And not even the taste for sleeping stopped her from graduating in Graphic and Multimedia Design, in Caldas da Rainha back in 2010. Since then, train became her favourite mode of transportation and books her travel companions. She cherish
very much cats, the yellow colour and her collection of gift's bows.

Mafalda and Catarina aka Nuts for Paper

What made you choose this craft and art?

Coming to a halt at professional level, and knowing the best of each other, we decided to unite and there was born the project "Nuts for Paper", which conveys our creative vision through products made of paper. With this project we wanted to fulfill our creative needs. We have an overwhelming passion for graphic design, typography and illustration, and both of us are collectors of notebooks and notepads of all sizes and shapes.
That inspire us to create our own line of unique products exclusively handmade, where the paper is the king. Though our path started in the design area, both of us still believe in print and handmade things. We value a lot the handmade process, therefore that was the path we choose to take. Everything you find in our shop is cut and assemble by hand. The illustrations are unique and exclusive to each notebook. We believe art should be accessible to anyone, and this is our way of doing our share.

Why sell on Etsy?

Why not? We live near, but apart, etsy is a away we easily share a space with our products. Besides all that its a community of makers, and we thought it would be a perfect place for what we do. We can see, appreciate and support other makers, and they can do the same with us. We believe its a place were people share a lot, and that's something
we appreciate too. We can learn, teach and inspire with each others.

Wish List Note Pad by NutsforPaper

What do you find most inspiring?

We are two creative creatures, anything inspire us. Give us a theme, a song, a person and like magic we have a hole new story to present to the world. We just like to share our vision and stories with everybody.

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

As we are new, and still learning how all this works, being involved in the "Mentor Month" was a huge help for us. Our Mentor gave us tips, things that we hadn't think would be important, which has made improved our store. In general, a cohesive brand and a clean photographic presentation is very important to attract new costumers, but lets not forget about the tags and S.E.O. And in this particularly theme, our mentor spared no efforts in helping us.
We hope to see more improvements for now on, and finally get our first sale on etsy.

the studio or where the magic happens - Nuts for Paper

What do you like to do with your free time?

Besides drawing, which is an obvious fact, we both love read romances and literature in general. Music is also a fundamental part of our days, and committing an indiscretion, we sang for several years on two different choirs in our city. As hobbies, Mafalda loves to photograph and travel (if time and budget allows it), on the other hand, Catarina likes to spend her free time hanging out with her friends and to go to music festivals.

All pictures by Nuts for Paper.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.

Meet the Members - Looping Home

noreply@blogger.com (Arte e Luar) — Wed, 09 Oct 2013 10:00:00 +0000

We're back with the second interview of this series.

In this one you'll meet a crocheter, maker and designer of home accessories, Ana and her shop Looping Home.

Enjoy!

Cosy crochet set - Nest and jar by Looping Home

Name: Ana Gonçalves
Etsy shop: http://LoopingHome.etsy.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LoopingHome
Blog - http://anavitri.blogspot.pt/

Hello! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

Hi, I'm Ana, I was born and raised in Porto, where I majored in Fine Arts and worked as a showroom decorator in renowned fashion stores.
In 2003 I decided to start a new life and moved to the countryside - Alentejo - where I currently live with my husband and two beautiful children. Here we plant our vegetables, have olive groves and ewes.
I am a very creative person and now I freelance as a decor and I dedicate my free time to the recent project Looping Home. I like Scandinavian style, the beauty of simple things, recycling, the diy concept, gardening... and crocheting.
I love traveling, discovering new places and people.

Ana aka Looping Home

What made you choose this craft?

I learned to crochet at the age of 9, it was usual for mothers to teach their daughters how to knit, crochet and embroider... but I never imagined that crochet would be my work, my business. :)
I rediscovered crochet about 2 years ago, when I redecorated my home. I wanted custom accessories, rugs, pillows, baskets storage ... it was then that I restarted crocheting and I have never stopped since then.
I always had a dream of creating my own business and found that crochet was my opportunity to do things I like to do in decor.
I love to crochet, it's relaxing and exciting at the same time, building new shapes with loops and stitches.

Why sell on Etsy?

I had two shops, but since I learned more about Etsy I gave up the other shop, to dedicate myself exclusively to this shop.
Etsy is amazing, its not just an online store, its a community that mutually helps and that's really wonderful.
At Etsy we make friends, we help each other, we have tools and tips, initiatives that help us be more professional and to sell.
I'm always recommending Etsy to my artisan friends.

Looping Home work space

What do you find most inspiring?

I find inspiration in the world and people. I'm inspired by a magazine, a blog, a concept, such as a sunset, a conversation, a shape. The materials are also a source of inspiration, I love trying new techniques and it brings me a lot of ideas.
I try to be aware of trends and lifestyle to create modern pieces, satisfying the current needs of people.

You were involved in the "Mentor Month" program on Etsy. What was the most important thing that you took from it?

First, I want to thank my mentor, Susana Duarte, she was fantastic!
It's amazing the availability of people to help!
The mentor month was important to consider certain aspects that we undervalue, but that make all the difference. With this initiative I change the store name and Susana made me a beautiful banner :)
I learned a lot about Etsy and made many improvements. It was very good participating!

Big storage basket and rug by Looping Home

What do you love to hear from your customers?

I get so happy when they send messages of great satisfaction and joy. It's wonderful when I exceed expectations and they return to my shop.
I like when they ask for advice and suggestions, it's so good to help them make decisions and giving them ideas.

Looping Home stand at a crafts fair

What would be the wildest professional proposal you could receive?
It would be amazing to have my pieces for sale in some decor stores that I love and identify with. It would be a great challenge and pride.

What keeps you motivated?

Believing in this project is a motivation for me. The quality of my work also makes me proud and makes me believe.
The support of my family and friends is an important factor to continue...

All photos by Ana Gonçalves aka Looping Home.

Check the other Meet the Members interviews.