Here, we ask designers to take a selfie and give us an inside look at their life.
Age: 29
Occupation: Artist and photographer.
Instagram: @studio.rochaa
Hometown: Curitiba, Brazil.
Studio location: São Paulo.
Describe what you make: I am a ceramic artist, and my work is a reflection of my exploration into rock and mineral formations. My fascination with the Earth’s natural processes led me to ceramics, which I found to be the perfect medium to embody and materialize these investigations. I have recently crafted a collection of pieces for Salon Design, drawing inspiration from coral and shell formations. Through the use of ceramic textures and glazes, I strive to capture the essence of this universe and translate it into sculptures.
The most important thing you’ve designed to date: The recent collection currently on display at Salon Design. Over the course of five months, I dedicated myself to producing this series, which posed a considerable challenge. I expanded the scale of my work and conducted multiple firings at varying temperatures to achieve the desired outcomes. This project marked my first venture into combining glass, clay, gold, and mother-of-pearl, resulting in a truly unique fusion. I’m genuinely thrilled with the outcome of this endeavor.
Describe the problem your work solves: Through my work, I aim to engage viewers in a dialogue with the Earth’s geological wonders and inspire a deeper appreciation for the intricate processes that shape our world.
Describe the project you are working on now: I’m embarking on a new project for an upcoming exhibition scheduled in São Paulo this October. Building upon my previous exploration of coral and shell motifs, I’m now trying to integrate these elements with the intricate textures achieved through nerikomi techniques, which have been a consistent feature of my work. This amalgamation aims to harmonize the visual language of marine formations with the tactile representation of Earth’s geological evolution. The creative process has been exceptionally intriguing as it involves a meticulous assembly of diverse materials and techniques, resulting in a captivating fusion of concepts and aesthetics.
A new or forthcoming project we should know about: My ongoing exhibition titled “Vulnerable Shelter,” currently on view at Salon Design until Sept. 15. I highly recommend experiencing this exhibition in person, as while photos capture its essence well, the tactile and visual impact of the pieces is truly transformative when viewed live. The interplay of numerous textures, luminous glows, and captivating volumes create an immersive and engaging experience that transcends the digital representation.
What you absolutely must have in your studio: Sunlight, research books, tasty snacks, a speaker for music and podcasts, and I can’t live without hand lotion. After working so many hours with ceramics, the feeling of applying lotion is simply the best in the world!
What you do when you’re not working: Lately, I’ve been really into watching documentaries on YouTube, especially the ones about marine life. It’s super interesting and kind of relaxing. Besides that, I’ve been enjoying the city and chilling with my friends this past year. Since I moved to São Paulo during the pandemic, I’ve been all about exploring this new place and making it feel like home.
Sources of creative envy: I had the pleasure of visiting an incredible exhibition of Hilma af Klint’s work, and it was truly inspiring. I’m amazed by how her art delves into the invisible realms and translates them into such monumental colors and forms. She’s definitely a major influence on my work, not only for her artistic contributions but also for being a pioneering woman in the art world.
The distraction you want to eliminate: The anxiety of wanting things to be ready on my timeline! Ceramics can be quite challenging, but it’s also a patience test and a lesson in realizing that not everything can be controlled. Sometimes I create a piece and only see it finished two months later, which drives me a bit crazy. But I’m learning to embrace the pace of things, even though it can be tough. One day, I’ll get there!
Concrete or marble? Marble.
High-rise or townhouse? Townhouse 100%.
Remember or forget? Remember, even though I lean more toward the “forget” side.
Aliens or ghosts? Can I choose both? But if I had to have some kind of contact, it would definitely be with aliens. I’m really scared of encountering a ghost.
Dark or light? Light!
