Centred on the creation of miniature framed sculptures, the artist Francisca focuses on the human face as a vessel for emotion. Each piece explores universal feelings through subtle facial expressions rather than individual identity or narrative. Their small size encourages viewers to step closer and spend time with each expression, allowing space for emotional connection. The practice develops as an evolving body of work through individual sculptures, installations and commissioned projects for private collectors, hospitality spaces and curated environments.
Francisca
Artist
I am a visual artist, and my work explores the relationship between matter, emotion, and memory through contemporary sculpture. My practice centres on creating compositions that balance texture, colour, and visual silence, inviting an intimate and sensory reading of each piece. Based in Porto, Portugal, my path includes early training in animation and art, evolving into a consistent focus on sculptural work.
I grew up surrounded by art, shaped by two painter parents, and early influences such as illustrated books, Studio Ghibli, Wallace & Gromit films and the universe of Aardman Studio became important references.
My visual language moves between the abstract and the figurative, with a focus on expressive fragments, particularly heads, that convey emotional states rather than fixed identities. Through repetition, scale, and colour, I build compositions that oscillate between order and intensity, encouraging a slow and contemplative engagement from the viewer.
Ines
Studio Director
My earliest connection to making came from my grandfather. He worked with wood, creating toys and small objects. His garage was filled with them, and those pieces shaped the way I understood beauty.
I was drawn to study Design early on, and with international experience in leading and directing design teams, my pathfocus in integrating design and communication strategies. Since early age a profound passion for art and design, built my aesthetic sensibility that enhances my approach to branding.
Living abroad sharpened my critical thinking through practice, through working with brands, businesses and real contexts,and reshaped my understanding of design as an active force. I came to see how it shapes perspective, establishes trust and influences decision. Design becomes a quiet structure of beauty that mirrors how we think, choose and inhabit the spaces around us.
