ABOUT

NÃO SOU RITA is my ceramic signature,
it means "I'm not Rita", actually I'm Joana.

It's a playful nod to my name but also represents the fun relationship I have with clay. I explore imaginary, magical characters that live between shadow and light. These creations are designed to encourage the audience to practice the art of smiling.

I'm graduated in Fine Arts in Caldas da Rainha (ESAD.CR) and later completed a Master’s in Animation and Illustration at IPCA. I also studied for a time at the Venice Academy of Fine Arts (2008-2009), where I fell in love with backpack traveling. Amid life’s comings and goings, I chose Porto as my home, where I have my ceramic studio and the sea nearby.

I am a stop-motion filmmaker and ceramist, and throughout my career, I have also worked with illustration, sculpture, and set design for theater.

These are some places you can explore more
about my professional journey in ceramics and animation.

Curated Porto | P3 | Animateca | Portugal Manual | Gerador | NIP

You can also watch some of my short-filmspublished on platforms
like RTP PLAY, the portuguese radio and television broadcaster.

CRIAS | Pronto, era assim | Três Vírgula Catorze

AND WHAT DO MY CLIENTS SAY ABOUT ME?

daniela v. - italy

I am passianate about ceramics and I collect pieces from all over the world. I discovered Joana's work in 2021, and it was love at the first sight. Her pieces are very unique and full of positive energy. I started with the Mudras collection during the pandemic, then came the hugs and fun masks to brighten up the walls, little monster pots and funtional pieces that bring joy to my kitchen and bedrooms, as well as the beautifull tile panels that decorate two bathrooms. I have many of her pieces throughout my home, and each one carry something essencially good. Having her art is an investment in happiness!

susana r. - portugal

Joana is already know in our home as the "hug girl". Heading towards my fifth order, all I can say is that every piece is beautiful, handmade, which makes them unique and special. Joana's work is excellent, with great quality and originality, as well as her kindness in customer service. In one word: I love it! I can only recommend it.

cj - florida (usa)

For the longest time, I have been enchanted by Joana's artistry on Instagram, witnessing the birth of the most adorable and expressive clay creations. When we commissioned a bespoke set for our home, Joana's warmth and dedication shone through as she collaborated with us over several months to craft six unique pieces, each brimming with character. Her ability to infuse life into clay is magical, and her playful quirkiness brings pure joy to any space. Joana's art transcends decor, evoking unadulterated happiness, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming more of her creations into our home.