Photo By @piscinastudio
About
From a young age, when everything else failed to appease me, I’ve found comfort in aesthetics.
Ânia Garradas was born in 1995 and always took pride in being “that weird kid”. Having an amazing support system allowed her to develop a thick shell and thoroughly filter unsolicited criticism.
After spending most of her childhood in a very sheltered (and slightly claustrophobic) school environment, Ânia had a 180º turn when she decided to study Art at Escola Artística Soares dos Reis. The incredibly creative and demanding environment gave her a sense of belonging, and thus freed her from her doubts and fears regarding her career choice.
With high school concluded, and determined to refine her craft, in 2013 Ânia enrolled in Engenho & Arte - Escola de Joalharia Contemporânea. She spent the first 4 years gathering every little piece of information and experimenting every technique she could. From the basics like welding to the complexity of filigree, she absorbed everything like a sponge.
Now, her work reflects the use of traditional techniques mashed with contemporary aesthetics.
Fantasy, Music, Nature and Cinema are her biggest influences, as well as her different roots and background. She also tries to incorporate her personal life and experiences in every piece, making them more personal and unique.
In the last 2 years, she began preparing for her debut as a professional jeweller, focusing on social media, building her portfolio and creating projects like 31 Moods of Jewellery, My Pet and Branch, but always keeping in mind her original dream.
And that’s how Garradas Jewellery came to life - the materialisation of a 5 y/o girl’s dream, that even as an adult, still believes in magic.