This fall, I was delighted to visit the 3rd Edition of the Lisbon New Design Biennial in Portugal (a project by Spira), just outside Lisbon, at the municipal market in Oeiras, which happens every two years over four days. It's an event featuring artists of all generations, especially in traditional craft, alongside younger artists putting their modern twist on traditional Portuguese techniques. There are also others who focus solely on their own designs, with strong attention to technique and process, all made by hand. It’s been described as “a fusion between artisan/craftspeople/artists practicing traditional know-how and those who bring a fresh perspective to that very same know-how.” An interactive show for selling and the exchange of knowledge through workshops and talks throughout. A platform for intergenerational exchange.
This is my second time attending the show, and I must say it’s always changing and a joy to see the high level of craftsmanship here.
Sourcing note – please note that all artisans and artists noted here are small-scale businesses that sell at retail, not wholesale. Some are open to special collaborations. All pieces are one of a kind.
So here, we dive into what caught my eye, whether in traditional designs or in a contemporary spin on traditional techniques distinctive to Portugal.