Interview
Ana Salazar
Ana Salazar is a self-taught textile artist from Portugal whose passion for texture and neutral tones was sparked during her maternity leave. In 2023, after a decade in the UK and a career at Apple, Ana left her job to fully pursue her artistic passion and return to her roots in Portugal. Inspired by the traditional craftsmanship of her grandmother and great-aunties, her work is deeply connected to the Portuguese landscapes and the emotions she experiences in everyday life. Ana recently signed with the French gallery network Carré D'Artistes, which includes over 40 galleries across Europe and around the world. Her pieces will be showcased both in these galleries and online. Ana strives to create art that evokes a sense of nostalgia, peace, and connection, translating her Portuguese heritage and personal feelings into each unique creation.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I’m a self-taught textile artist from Portugal. My journey into the art world began during my maternity leave in 2019, where I found myself drawn to the tactile nature of textile arts. Inspired by my grandmother and great-aunties, who were masters of crochet and sewing, I started my own creative journey exploring weaving and macramé. This passion grew so strong that in 2023, after a decade in the UK and a career at Apple, I left my job to fully dedicate myself to my art and reconnect with my Portuguese roots.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“My work is a reflection of my personal journey, deeply rooted in the landscapes of Portugal and the emotions they evoke in me. While it doesn’t explicitly comment on social or political issues, it speaks to the universal themes of nostalgia, peace, and connection. I aim to create art that resonates emotionally, inviting viewers to find their own stories woven into the fabric.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“My process is largely intuitive. While I sometimes sketch initial concepts, I allow the materials and my emotions to guide me as I create. Each piece evolves naturally, often taking unexpected directions as I work. I find that this approach allows my art to be more authentic and connected to the moment, making each creation truly unique.”
“My work is a reflection of my personal journey, deeply rooted in the landscapes of Portugal and the emotions they evoke in me.”
Are there any art world trends you are following?
“I’m particularly interested in the growing appreciation for textile art and craft-based practices within the contemporary art scene. There’s a renewed focus on sustainability and the use of natural materials, which aligns with my own commitment to using materials that reflect the organic and tactile nature of my work. I’m also inspired by the trend towards slow, mindful creation, which mirrors my own intuitive process.”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“I primarily use weaving and macramé techniques, working with natural fibers in neutral tones to build layers of texture. My process begins with warping the loom, a ritual that symbolizes both structure and possibility. From there, I let my intuition take over, responding to the materials as I work. I’m constantly exploring new ways to incorporate my surroundings and emotions into my art, ensuring that each piece is a reflection of my journey.”
What does your art mean to you?
“My art is a deeply personal expression of who I am and where I come from. It’s a way for me to reconnect with my roots, to channel the beauty of the Portuguese landscapes and the emotions I experience in everyday life into something tangible. Creating art is both a passion and a necessity for me - it’s how I make sense of the world and share my story with others.”
What’s your favourite artwork and why?
“My favorite artwork is Kintsugi. It was born from a personal reflection on the pressures I’ve felt, especially after becoming a mother. I’ve often been harsh on myself, struggling with the emotional and physical changes. There were moments when I felt broken, and Kintsugi symbolizes my journey toward self-acceptance. It represents allowing myself grace, forgiving my flaws, and finding beauty in them. This piece is a celebration of the broken parts of us that make us whole - because we’ve all been broken in one way or another, yet we still stand tall. Our flaws are beautiful and integral to who we are, and they shouldn’t be hidden or changed to fit into a fake notion of perfection.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“I’m excited to share that I recently signed with the French gallery network Carré D'Artistes. This opportunity will allow me to showcase my work in over 40 galleries worldwide, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in my artistic career.”
Website: www.anasalazaratelier.com
Instagram: @anasalazar.atelier
