Could you introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about your background?

I initially studied to become an officer in the merchant navy but soon realized I no longer belonged in that domain. I commanded boats for a few years, but eventually, I decided to leave because I felt unfulfilled. In 2016, I moved to Paris and gave up my officer career. Two years later, after organizing my first professional exhibition featuring my drawings, I decided to move to Lisbon, drawn by its connection to nature and the sea.

While continuing to work on exhibitions, I also began taking ceramic classes, fascinated by the significance of ceramics in Portuguese history. After a year of classes and during the pandemic, I started creating bespoke ceramic pieces for my apartment, which I was renovating at the time. This personal project inspired me to launch my first collection of ceramic furniture in early 2022.

Can you explain why you decided to work in Lisbon ? How has it changed your approach to your project?

I decided to move to Portugal after spending a few years in Paris because I missed nature and tranquility. Having been born in Brittany, I feel at home in Portugal as it shares similarities with Brittany in some aspects. Its Atlantic coast, maritime heritage, and climate resonate deeply with me. The rugged sea surrounds us, and I sense that people here share a similar mindset, shaped by the same beliefs and legends.

Moving to Portugal has had a profound impact on my work, as my creative journey truly began here. All my discoveries about ceramics and design have taken place in this country. I’ve learned everything I know from the incredible local savoir-faire, which has deeply influenced my creativity. I draw a lot of inspiration from the nature around me and the way the Portuguese sun casts its light, giving a unique warmth and energy to everything. On summer nights, I often feel a subtle feverish warmth, and this sensation influences many of my creations.

Could you tell us what project you are working on and what you would like to explore in the coming months?

I am currently renovating a countryside house in Ribatejo, which will become my home, my atelier, and, more broadly, the cradle of my creativity. In parallel, I am planning to learn upholstery, as I aspire to craft my own seats and sofas.

Could you name one Portuguese artist you admire or who inspired you?

The people who inspire me the most are painters, architects, and fashion designers. I particularly admire the renowned Manuel Aires Mateus for his refined simplicity, which results in exceptionally elegant works.

Can you tell us one spot in Lisbon that inspires you?

Santa Clara Hotel by Silent Living and João Rodrigues.

How do you see the evolution of the Lisbon creative community? 

I believe the creative community in Lisbon is incredibly important. There are many talented artists here who are mentally free to pursue whatever they envision. They aren’t confined to a specific movement or a vision shaped by formal education or schools. Instead, they create independently or collaboratively, often sharing large spaces and expansive ateliers.

This dynamic energy feels unique to Lisbon, and in recent years, it seems to be growing even faster. The rise of collectives and events has brought artists together and made their work more visible, which is truly inspiring.