MEET THE ARTIST: Mariana PTKS
Tell us how this passion for the world of art began.
My childhood was very stimulating in creative terms, I spent hours creating small plasticine sculptures, painting with watercolors... I spent days immersed in books about fantasy, magic, and above all, art. My father was a Visual Education teacher and, therefore, owns an enviable library.
I started taking painting classes when I was 12, and from then on one thing was certain – I wanted to be an artist. And so it was. I studied Visual Arts and in the last year of the course there was an incredible urban art exhibition here in Porto, StreetArtAxa. It was a turning point for me, ending up awakening my curiosity for various techniques and materials.
How does your creative process work?
I keep many references, visual and written. I draw a lot in the studio, but especially when traveling. Even if you're not going to use an idea right away, it's recorded. Sometimes I go back months in my notebooks and something catches my attention that finally sees the light of day.
What are the elements that inspire you?
All natural elements are a huge source of inspiration for me. The colors that paint the sky at sunrise and sunset, the countless textures created by water in its different states and the forest floor that hides so many secrets. The sunlight that the tree branches let through. I like to live with curiosity and always learn.
In his art pieces he has been creating different universes, full of fantasy. What do you try to express in your works?
I aim to represent safe spaces where we can let our guard down and be ourselves. Where we can be one with nature and let our imagination take us to all kinds of places.
How do you face creative challenges in your work? How do you stay motivated?
I'm not going to sugar coat the pill, sometimes it's complicated, especially these days. Being a woman in the art world and an independent worker is a constant challenge. But that's what motivates me to do more and better.
Who are the artists who inspired you?
Kandinsky, Vieira da Silva, Bridget Riley, Victor Vasarely and Jen Stark for example.
Do you have any more recent projects or work you would like to share?
I recently painted a mural in Matosinhos, near the Senhora da Hora sports pavilion. I have also held some urban art workshops in schools, working with young people is something that gives me special gratification.
As a young artist, do you have any advice you would like to share with young people who are taking their first steps in the world of art?
Being consistent makes all the difference. Defeats are part of it, and we must celebrate all victories, no matter how small they may be.
Finally, who is the artist you dream of working with one day?
I would be very grateful for all the collaborations that could come my way, but I would especially like to collaborate with foreign artists.
