About


Castelo Branco illustration by me.
My
Story
Me at my MA textiles degree exhibition.
I am a dedicated and passionate textile and surface designer with a rich background in both practical design and education. My journey in the creative industry began in 2012 with a placement as a Textiles Designer at Almeida & Santo Interiores, where I gained invaluable experience in the world of interior design.
After earning my BA (Hons) in Textiles and Surface Design on July 14th, 2017, I immediately stepped into the role of a Textiles Studio Designer just three days later, immersing myself in the industry from the start. My desire to deepen my technical knowledge led me to pursue a Textiles Technology course in September 2018. Although I paused this study in December 2019, I continued to enhance my skills and broaden my expertise by undertaking a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) at the master's level in January 2020, which I completed in February 2021.
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During my PGCE Postgraduate certificate in Education masters level, I gained valuable teaching experience through placements at the University of Bolton in June 2020. I then taught Art and Design for Wellbeing from June 2020 to May 2023, helping students explore creativity as a form of personal development. In September 2021, I expanded my teaching portfolio through supply teaching across various subjects, including Art and Design.
In September 2022, I resumed my studies, transferring to an MA in Textiles, which I am currently completing. Alongside my academic pursuits, I had the privilege of participating in a one-month art residency at Fabrica da Criatividade in Castelo Branco in June 2023. This residency allowed me to delve into the rich cultural history and embroidery traditions of Castelo Branco, which I am currently exploring through a series of paintings for an upcoming exhibition in October.
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Most recently, in June 2024, I exhibited a collection of works as part of my degree that focused on the culture of São Tomé and Príncipe. This exhibition allowed me to explore and celebrate the unique heritage, traditions, and visual language of the islands, translating these rich cultural elements into my textile and surface designs.
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My work is diverse, covering a wide range of design themes that reflect my love for both traditional and contemporary influences. My portfolio includes:
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Geometric Designs: Clean, structured patterns that play with symmetry and form.
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Nature-Inspired Designs: Organic motifs that capture the beauty of the natural world.
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Cultural Designs: Patterns and prints that explore and celebrate cultural heritage and history.
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People & Houses: Illustrative designs that depict human figures and architectural elements, often with a narrative focus.
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Animal Designs: Lively, detailed representations of animals, from the realistic to the whimsical.
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Tartans: Traditional yet innovative tartan patterns that blend classic styles with modern color palettes.
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My work has been recognized through various competitions and exhibitions. Notably, I was shortlisted and won 3rd place in the idott Competition in March 2024. Previous achievements include being a finalist in the idott Competition for Rio Olympics Wallpapers (2016), and receiving the Creative Degree Show's award by Ursula Greenwood from Edinburgh Weavers in 2017. I have also exhibited at prestigious events like New Designers (2017) and MoOD in Brussels (2016), showcasing my digital prints for interiors.
Throughout my career, I have consistently explored the intersection of culture, history, and art in my work, whether through competitions like the Bradford Textiles Competition or exhibitions at venues like Almada Art Gallery. My designs are deeply influenced by my research and artistic explorations, and I strive to create pieces that not only decorate but tell a story.
I continue to pursue my passion for textiles and surface design, blending my creative practice with teaching and ongoing research, always aiming to push the boundaries of my craft.