Joana Vasconcelos Portrait © Lionel Balteiro for Atelier Joana Vasconcelos; Courtesy of BRAFA Joana Vasconcelos, a globally celebrated artist known for her monumental sculptures and immersive installations, brings a distinctive voice to contemporary art. Her practice, deeply rooted in Portuguese traditions, transforms everyday materials—textiles, ceramics, and domestic objects—into thought-provoking works that challenge conventional narratives. Vasconcelos’ art masterfully intertwines traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation, creating pieces that are at once playful, powerful, and deeply resonant. Themes of gender, identity, and cultural heritage are central to her work, often explored through the lens of humour and irony to disarm and engage audiences.
This year, Vasconcelos takes center stage as the Guest of Honor at the 70th anniversary of the BRAFA Art Fair, a milestone that underscores both her artistic influence and the fair's legacy as a cultural institution. Marking a historic moment as the first female artist to hold this position, Vasconcelos will present two of her signature Valkyries—monumental sculptures inspired by Norse mythology. These vibrant textile works, embodying strength and resilience, pay homage to BRAFA's heritage while offering a bold dialogue with its contemporary setting.
In this conversation, Vasconcelos reflects on the significance of her BRAFA invitation, the evolution of her Valkyries series, and the broader themes that define her practice. She discusses the transformative power of traditional crafts, the collaborative spirit behind her large-scale projects, and the role of humour in addressing complex societal issues. Through her visionary approach, Vasconcelos continues to redefine the boundaries of art, bridging the past and present while imagining a future where tradition and innovation coexist seamlessly.
Jelena Martinovic: You've been invited as the Guest of Honor for the 70th anniversary of BRAFA Art Fair. Could you share what this invitation means to you and what you hope to convey through this collaboration?
Joana Vasconcelos: I am deeply honoured to be BRAFA's Guest of Honour, particularly in recognition of the fair's 70th anniversary, a remarkable milestone that underscores both its historical significance and its enduring impact on the global art world. On top of that, I will be the first female artist to be in such position. The longevity of BRAFA is a testament to its role as a beacon for art connoisseurs and collectors, fostering an environment where the past, present, and future of art intersect. To be part of this momentous celebration is not only a privilege but also an opportunity to engage with an institution that has become synonymous with cultural preservation and artistic innovation.
The fair has consistently distinguished itself through its rigorous selection of artists and artworks, curated with a level of thoughtfulness and precision that places it among the most respected art fairs globally. The dedication and expertise of the BRAFA team are clearly reflected in the calibre of both the exhibitions and the participating artists, and I am both honoured and inspired to contribute to such a such a long-standing and esteemed institution.
JM: At BRAFA, you'll be presenting two Valkyries—sculptures from your ongoing series inspired by Norse mythological figures who soared over battlefields. What first drew you to this subject, and how has the series evolved throughout your career? Additionally, how do you envision these sculptures engaging with the unique environment of the fair?
JV: At BRAFA, I will be presenting two monumental Valkyries, sculptures from a series inspired by the powerful female figures of Norse mythology who soared over battlefields to resurrect the bravest warriors and take them to Valhalla. These works embody the spirit of strength and resilience, qualities that I believe resonate deeply with the contemporary moment. Made from a variety of textiles, the Valkyries showcase a surprising mix of volumes, textures, and colours, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary techniques. I see these works as an aesthetic and conceptual focal point, paying tribute to BRAFA's rich heritage while creating an immersive experience that bridges tradition and innovation. My hope is that these Valkyries will contribute to making BRAFA's 70th anniversary an unforgettable and visually striking celebration.
JM: The Valkyries are traditionally seen as symbols of strength and guardianship. In what ways do you see these qualities resonating in contemporary society, and how do they relate to the themes you explore in your work?
JV: The Valkyries, as symbols of strength, guardianship, and transformative power, resonate profoundly in contemporary society, where these qualities are increasingly important in addressing global challenges and advocating for equality. In my work, the Valkyries embody these timeless attributes while also serving as powerful metaphors for the role of women in today's world. Inspired by the female figures of Norse mythology, who traversed battlefields to select the bravest warriors and guide them to Valhalla, my Valkyries celebrate the resilience, courage, and nurturing strength often associated with women. These sculptures, created from textiles, crochet, and ornamental trimmings, are a vibrant interplay of volumes, textures, and colours, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary innovation.
The use of textiles is particularly significant as it links to the historically undervalued role of domestic crafts—work often relegated to women—and reclaims it as a space of strength and artistry. By integrating light and technology into these sculptures, I bring them into the 21st century, giving them a sense of movement and life that mirrors the dynamic and evolving role of women in society today.
In many ways, the Valkyries are a reflection of the themes I explore in my broader practice—questions of identity, power, and transformation. They invite viewers to consider the enduring importance of guardianship and strength in modern life, while also celebrating the intersection of tradition and innovation, the personal and the universal. Through their bold presence, they become not only symbols of protection but also a call to recognize and honour the multifaceted contributions of women in shaping our world.
JM: Crochet is a central technique in your practice, often transforming everyday materials into intricate, larger-than-life sculptures. What significance does this technique hold for you, and how do you see it challenging traditional notions of craft and art?
JV: Crochet holds a profound significance in my practice, as it represents the fusion of tradition and innovation, heritage and transformation. Rooted in the traditional crafts of Portugal—such as textiles, embroidery, and ceramics—it embodies the cultural richness and artisanal legacy that have shaped my creative identity. Crochet resonates deeply because it is a craft historically linked to domesticity and often overlooked in the realm of high art. By elevating it, I challenge traditional notions of craft and art, reclaiming its power and relevance in contemporary discourse. The intricate, labour-intensive nature of crochet carries with it the history, knowledge, and spirit of generations who have preserved and passed down these techniques. When I incorporate this craft into my work, I am not merely referencing tradition but actively decontextualizing and reinterpreting it for the present.
At the same time, I integrate technology—such as lighting and movement—into my crocheted sculptures, creating a dialogue between the past and the future. This synthesis allows me to highlight the enduring relevance of traditional crafts while pushing their boundaries, demonstrating how they can evolve and adapt in a contemporary context. Through this approach, I aim to evoke memories and emotions while also challenging viewers to reconsider the value of artisanal techniques. Crochet becomes not just a craft but a powerful tool for storytelling, cultural preservation, and artistic innovation, bridging the gap between personal histories and universal connections.
JM: Your work often incorporates elements traditionally associated with femininity, such as textiles or domestic objects. How do you see these materials engaging with cultural narratives about gender?
JV: The incorporation of materials traditionally associated with femininity, such as textiles or domestic objects, is a deliberate choice that reflects my interest in subverting cultural narratives about gender. These materials, often tied to the private, domestic sphere, are transformed in my work, challenging their conventional roles and redefining their significance within the context of contemporary art. By elevating these objects and techniques—crochet, embroidery, or household items like pans—I invite viewers to reconsider their value and confront the societal norms that have historically relegated them to the margins of artistic expression. While my approach echoes the tradition of the readymade, it is distinct. I don’t merely elevate these objects to the status of art; I transform them, maximizing their aesthetic and conceptual potential to create new layers of meaning. A pan, for instance, is not just a pan—it becomes a symbol of labour, identity, and the unacknowledged contributions of women in society. Through this transformation, I aim to bridge the gap between the private and public spheres, inviting dialogue about the cultural narratives that shape our understanding of gender roles.
JM: Portugal's artistic and cultural legacy is an important influence in your work. How does your identity as a Portuguese artist inform your practice?
JV: My identity as a Portuguese artist is deeply embedded in my work, shaping both its form and meaning. While I was born in France during my parents' exile, I grew up in Portugal, immersed in the country’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. This upbringing profoundly influenced my creative vision, as I was captivated by the wealth of Portuguese crafts and traditions that have become integral to my practice. The connection between arts and crafts in Portugal—tiles, ceramics, textiles, embroidery, jewellery, and gilded woodwork—forms the foundation of my artistic language. These elements, with their intricate craftsmanship, vibrant colours, and interplay of light, reflect the baroque sensibilities that inspire much of my work. They represent not just a cultural legacy but also a testament to the knowledge, creativity, and spirit of the people who have passed these traditions down through generations.
JM: Your large-scale installations often transform the spaces they inhabit. How does the architectural context of a venue influence your creative decisions?
JV: My work is deeply influenced by the architectural context of the spaces it inhabits. Each piece establishes a dynamic relationship with its environment, adapting to the unique characteristics of the venue. This adaptability ensures that each installation is not just placed in a space but becomes an integral part of it, transforming how the space is experienced. The cultural and historical context of a venue also plays a pivotal role in shaping the meaning and symbolism of my work. These layers of context add richness and depth, allowing the audience to engage with the piece in ways that are informed by their personal and cultural backgrounds. It has given me a distinct voice that celebrates the richness of my heritage while pushing the boundaries of artistic expression, transforming traditional crafts into contemporary art that engages.
JM: Your practice involves working closely with artisans and craftspeople. How do these collaborations impact the final outcome of your work, and in what ways does their expertise shape or inform your artistic vision?
JV: Collaboration is at the heart of my artistic practice, and working closely with artisans and craftspeople profoundly shapes the outcome of my work. The expertise and skill of my team—comprising over 50 professionals from diverse fields—play an essential role in transforming my vision into reality. These collaborations are a vital source of inspiration and innovation. The artisans bring a deep understanding of materials and techniques, often rooted in traditional craftsmanship, which adds layers of meaning and authenticity to the work. While I provide the conceptual framework and artistic direction, the artisans' input often introduces new possibilities and perspectives that inform and enrich the creative journey. Ultimately, these collaborations are what make it possible to achieve the ambitious scale and complexity of my pieces. They not only bring technical expertise but also infuse the work with a collective spirit that underscores the importance of teamwork and shared creativity in the artistic process.
JM: Humour and irony are often present in your work. How do you see these elements contributing to the way audiences engage with the themes you explore?
JV: Humour and irony are central to my work because they act as gateways for audiences to engage with the themes I explore. These elements introduce a sense of lightness that can disarm viewers, allowing them to connect with the work on an emotional level before delving into its deeper layers. By incorporating humour, I aim to create a moment of disruption—something that catches people off guard, sparks laughter, and encourages them to see things from a new perspective. Dichotomies often drive the humour in my work, where dissonance between the familiar and the unexpected invites a playful yet critical dialogue. Laughter, in this sense, is a powerful tool. It prevents audiences from over-rationalizing the art and instead encourages a visceral, human response.
Through humour, I bring humanity back to art. It allows me to address complex or even uncomfortable topics in a way that feels approachable and relatable. By engaging audiences in this way, I can open new dimensions of understanding and reflection, making space for both joy and critical inquiry. This interplay between humour and depth is essential to how my work resonates with people and fosters meaningful connections.
