This week, dive into the fascinating creations of João Baffa, highlighted as the Artist of the Week at FRESTA. From observation to sensation, explore the complex creative process that characterizes his work. Discover the charming places in Lisbon that inspire his illustrations as Baffa shares his creative corner in the living room and unveils the essence behind his works of art.

What is your name or what do you prefer to be called? Where were you born? How old are you ?

João Baffa, born in Rio – BR. I’m 39 years old.

 How did you get into art / illustration?

I think I tried with a huge effort to ignore art in my life, but I couldn’t.

It was always in my life until I finally accepted and found the artist inside me. 

A lot of friends helped me in this process. 

I think Art has many sides, mine is more a matter of accepting my sensitiveness than anything else.

 How do you define your style and technique? 

I’m still searching for a style. Some times, I doubt I can have a definitive/concrete style. I know I have a theme/subject which is plants/botany.

 Can you tell us about your work process? 

My process starts with observation and feeling my surroundings and how it resonates with my sensitiveness.

After that, its more of a messy process that I’m learning how to deal with. 

 What brought you to Lisbon? 

So many things with so many layers. Do you have time to talk about it? hahahaha

My therapist and I have loads of material about this topic… Ok, mainly, I came to Lisbon to study typography and editorial.

That’s the brief version. 😛

 Can you indicate places you know and like in Lisbon?

Lisbon is a such a lovely place. Nowadays, the place I like the most is my home hahhaha but I can say I also like a kind of hidden corner of Lisbon: “Travessa do Patrocínio” in Campo de Ourique.

It’s a great place to chill and it has beautiful fountain.

 Of all your creations, can you single out one work or project that you identify with the most?

I think I identify a lot with a illustration I did during the Pandemics: Monument. I think it shows a lot who I am and people tend to create new meanings to it which I love. 

 Do you produce in a studio or at home? Can you show us a “Fresta” (a piece of your studio)?

Living in Lisboa and having a home is a luxury, right? ahhaha So, I normally produce my things on my corner of the living room.

What have you read, seen or heard? (books, magazines, films, series, exhibitions and the latest release of musicians a new musical discovery or concerts?

Since we are talking a lot about Lisbon, “Também os Brancos Sabem Dançar” is a great book with Lisbon as a background by Kalaf Epalanga. I’m a huge fan.

Where can I follow you and where can I buy your work?

@joaobaffa in instagram or www.joaobaffa.com

 If you had to leave a message about yourself, life or art, what would it be?

hmmmm I don’t think I have. hahhaha

First. Also. To conclude. Further. In addition. Firstly. In conclusion. Furthermore. Also. Further.