The brilliant Portuguese wood crafter João Manardu gave us the exclusive opportunity to interview him about his fascinating woodworking, to celebrate his presence at Maison et Objet 2019 in the CRAFT – métiers d’art sector (Hall 5A – Stand J15).
“Bilingual”. Photo: ©João Manardu
His artist’s signature is peculiar and easily recognizable: he worships the natural wood cracks and fissures filling them with metals. What others consider as flaws, he sees as beauty.
Photo: ©João Manardu
When asked “What is the art piece you are most proud of from all the ones you created so far? Why?”, João Manardu playfully said that the answer to that question, for him, is always: the current one. He confesses that the creation which has the highest impact on him is always the last one, the one he is working in at the moment.
“Tree”. Photo: ©João Manardu
“What fascinates me, most of all, is the process of creation”, he explains, “the piece I am working with currently opens doors for new possibilities and discoveries of innovative ideas and techniques. The last one is what inspires me for the next”.
Photo: ©Arthus Gallery
The second question was: Are you currently working in any new projects? Could you tell us what are the concepts for them, what inspired you and what techniques you are going to use?
Photo: ©Arthus Gallery
Photo: ©Arthus Gallery
João Manardu proudly declares he always tries to innovate his creative process. Presently, he is preparing himself for the the event “Révélations”, that will happen in the Grand Palais, in May. His creation main focus is trying to merge several sculptural and functional artworks into one single unity.
Photo: ©Arthus Gallery
Finally, the question: What is your opinion about the current state of Portuguese Design and the future possibilities for it?
Photo: ©Arthus Gallery
“I believe that Portuguese Design is growing. Nowadays, it is renowned nationally and internationally. It is now conquering new and different markets thanks to its quality and originality. There is a demand for Portuguese Design like never before, so I can see a bright future coming our way.”
Photo: ©João Manardu
Stay with us to find out more about this exceptional Portuguese master artisan.
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