https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osj__1b3E_8&feature=youtu.be
The region of Aveiro is famous for its historical tiles, many of which feature nautical designs such as boats and fish, reflecting the region’s maritime history.
Tile artistry is highly prevalent in central Portugal, particularly in the region of Aveiro, due to the popularity of the baroque style on building facades.
about the tiles artistry in the Aveiro Region
Living Tile City–Museum
Ovar is considered the Living Tile City Museum – a title bestowed by Rafael Salinas Calado (the first director of the National Tile Museum in Lisbon). This decorative art form is a distinctive heritage element that defines the city’s history.
The oldest traces of tilework found in Ovar date back to the 16th century (Hispano-Arabic tiles discovered in the Matriz Church), becoming an undeniable paradigm in the 19th and 20th centuries, driven by social, artistic, and industrial transformation. The tiles were concentrated in the streets where the principal commercial, political, and religious services were located.
Oliveira do Bairro also boasts a remarkable tile heritage, with 1974 houses – around 22% of the total number of houses in the municipality – adorned with tiles that embellish, preserve, and enhance the facades of the buildings. The city of Aveiro is also a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore tile art, with the Aveiro Railway Station standing out as one of the main attractions for this thematic visit.
Did you know that tiles artistry work is an essential part of the culture and heritage of the Aveiro region? The use of tiles as decoration is a distinctive characteristic of Portuguese architecture. It can be seen in buildings throughout the country.
experience the tiles artistry work in the Aveiro region
An essential part of the patrimony of the Aveiro region
The School of Arts and Crafts of Ovar promotes various activities and projects aimed at investigating, safeguarding, and restoring historical facades with tiles and providing a more informed visiting experience for those seeking to discover the city’s tile heritage. Here are some of the most emblematic projects:
- ELA Spaces, inspired by the concept of tiles as decorative, geometric, and repetitive elements, delve into the universe of symmetries, mathematics, creative deconstruction, and the creation of new elements and tiles.
- Tiles’ Street is a guided tour exploring the world of tiles and everything you encounter. It covers decoration techniques, the reasons behind the city’s tile characteristics, the stories behind the tiled walls, the houses, the families, and the narratives they hold.
- The “Go for a walk” game is an opportunity to embark on the Tile Route, either independently or accompanied (according to the visitor’s preference), in search of a specific tile in the city.
At Sombra D’Arte Atelier in Oliveira do Bairro, Carlinda Santos offers workshops every Saturday afternoon. She occasionally welcomes groups to learn at her studio.
At Don Duarte, in Anadia, the atelier owned by Mr. Agostinho Duarte, there is the opportunity, by appointment, for people to paint their own tile and take it home with them.
Must-see in the Aveiro Region
Sombra D’Arte Atelier, Oliveira do Bairro
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of tile production at the renowned “Sombra D’Arte” atelier. Led by the talented Carlinda Soares, this atelier in Oliveira do Bairro offers engaging and interactive experiences where guests can witness the intricate process of tile production, from design and painting to glazing and firing. Whether you’re a curious enthusiast or a passionate artist, “Sombra D’Arte” provides a captivating journey into tile craftsmanship.
Unleash your creativity as you learn tile painting techniques, explore the harmonious interplay of colors and patterns, and create your own unique masterpiece. “Sombra D’Arte” offers a truly memorable and enriching experience for all those eager to discover the captivating world of tile artistry.
Don Duarte, Anadia
Embark on a fascinating journey into tile production at “Dom Duarte.” Led by the skilled artisan Agostinho Duarte, this atelier offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the art and craftsmanship behind traditional tile making. Step into the captivating ambiance of the atelier and witness the meticulous process of tile production, from clay shaping to glazing and firing.
Located in the charming town of Anadia, “Dom Duarte” is a haven for tile enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic artistic experience. Agostinho Duarte’s expertise and passion for tile-making shine through every aspect of this atelier. Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional Portuguese tiles’ vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and cultural significance.
School of Arts and Crafts, Ovar
The School of Arts and Crafts was inaugurated in 2013, a former paper factory, with the primary objective of preserving the memories of the tangible and intangible cultural heritage of the municipality of Ovar.
The space features thematic exhibitions related to the Traditional Arts and Crafts of the region, such as rope-making, cooperage, pottery, sack-making, and tile-making. Within this location, you can also find the ACRA – Tile Conservation and Restoration Atelier of Ovar, which values and preserves the region’s tile heritage.
Meet the artisans
Visit the Aveiro region and contribute to valorizing local artisans and preserving regional crafts and knowledge.
Artisans in the Aveiro region preserve traditional techniques passed down through generations, producing high-quality and unique products. They use sustainable methods and materials, promote the local economy, and offer personalized products. All these reasons contribute to keeping the culture and history of the Aveiro region alive while providing visitors exclusive and sustainable products.
In 1994/1995, the art of tile painting entered Carlinda Santos’ life, thanks to her 8-year-old son. Most of her commissions feature religious themes or traditions. Still, recently there has been a growing demand for panels depicting old houses undergoing reconstruction. These panels portray the houses in their original state before the renovations, and this trend has become increasingly popular over the past 2 years.
In 1970, he won an international painting prize, as well as the People’s Choice Award, at a solo exhibition of oil paintings held annually in Venezuela, where he was living as an emigrant. In 1981, he returned to Portugal and founded Curiarte, a ceramic and tile factory, which is now known as Don Duarte.
His most significant project was for Saudi Arabia, where he created a 152-meter panel for one of the palaces. The panel was produced in Portugal, but Mr. Agostinho personally oversaw its installation on-site. This monumental undertaking took one year to complete.
Embark on one of the four experiences we have created for you.
Experiences to
Learn from the masters
The region of Aveiro is renowned for its rich artisanal tradition and the variety of arts and crafts. If you love local culture, take advantage of your days in the Aveiro region to visit and learn from the masters, the true guardians of cultural and traditional wisdom.
