Throughout our publications, we have introduced people from different backgrounds and activities, all with one thing in common: their passion for this city. In Lisbon in Us by Cathy Douzil, this French artist tells us her story and shows us her works where Portuguese tiles are often present.
I was born and raised in Paris, where I studied art, but I have lived in Lisbon for over 20 years, with my English husband and our Portuguese daughter.
I arrived with my husband in 1999, where I immediately felt at home. I immediately liked the size of this beautiful city, a small capital but always with artistic and multicultural events, with easy access to everything and with its own character.
My activity as an artist has always been combined with work related to drawing (archaeology, animation, illustration), and in 2012 I started to regularly carry out model drawing sessions, which brings me great happiness.
In 2012 I also started a shared studio project where I can develop my artistic work. This collective context is very important to me, as it makes me feel that I belong to a very special family! I share Espaço 62 with 7 other colleagues from different origins and backgrounds, and we leave the studio door open to welcome the energy and bustle of the street.
I try to get around as much as possible on foot to enjoy the beauty of the city and its calmness. But I don’t walk to work because my home is above my studio.
I get a lot of inspiration from the colours and patterns present in Portuguese tiles, for my paper artworks. Collage is a technique that I practice a lot, I’ve always liked to create with paper, with or without patterns. I also really like to paint the buildings windows and balconies in the old neighbourhoods full of colourful plants and flowers. Many gardens of Lisbon also offer study subjects, endless work topics and peace for the soul!I’ve been participating in Festival dos Jardins Abertos (open gardens festival) for several years, which takes place in May and October, where you can discover or get to know some of the city’s green spaces better. I strongly recommend it. Another event worth knowing is Abertura de Ateliês de Artistas (opening of artists’ studios) in Lisbon, which takes place this year on the 7th, 8th and 9th of October, and where, of course, Espaço 62 will participate!
| Lisbon in Us by Cathy Douzil | |
|---|---|
| Mini introduction | I was born and raised in Paris, where I studied art. In addition to my artistic practice, I carry out model drawing sessions. Follow my works on: Facebook and Instagram |
| An inspiring place | I always like the view from the São Pedro de Alcântara Viewpoint, which calls for a break to fill your eyes |
| An unmissable visit | My shared studio that looks like an Ali Baba cave with unique pieces and good vibes, in Rua da Conceição de Glória, close to Alegria Square |
| Her mouth waters with… | Some beautiful seasonal fruits and a white sparkling wine |
| A song… | The song-poem Gaivota, sung by Amália Rodrigues |
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