Mariana Porto

Brazilian

Biography

Mariana Porto conceived and directed initiatives such as Objeto Design, a studio that created utilitarian products in cast aluminum, reforestation wood, and blown glass, and Jade Handmade, a textile development laboratory that helped her choose fabric as an artistic language. Mariana, who graduated in plastic arts from Faculdade Santa Marcelina, had her work exhibited at Espaço Galpão (São Paulo, Brazil), Sesc Copacabana (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), and the Museo Nacional de la Acuarela (Mexico City, Mexico). In 2019, she founded Atelier 284, an exhibition and cultural space in São Paulo.

Artist Statement

The work of Mariana Porto (São Paulo, 1974) revolves around fabric as its primary medium. In addition to chromatic research and material combinations, her works explore the boundaries between art and object, often delving into a mythical space through universal symbols. The artist has been expanding her repertoire of media and languages, exemplified by performances and their documentation in videos and photos, as well as the occupation of architectural spaces with textile installations. Collaborative authorship also manifests in works where the artist invites participation, listening, and collaboration with viewers. Having graduated in Fine Arts from Santa Marcelina College, Mariana has exhibited her work at the Museum of Art of the Federal University of Ceará, where her pieces are part of the collection, as well as at Espaço Galpão (São Paulo), Sesc Copacabana (Rio de Janeiro), and the National Watercolor Museum (Mexico City). In 2019, she founded Atelier 284, an exhibition and cultural space in São Paulo. She has conceived and directed initiatives such as Jade Handmade, focused on textile development and special projects, and Objeto Design, a studio for creating utilitarian products using cast aluminum, sustainably sourced wood, and blown glass.