The Adolfo Mendonça studio was founded in February 2017, when the young ceramist converted his parents’ garage on Terceira Island into a workshop where he could create his own pieces. Inspired by nature and the sea of the Azores, and influenced by photography and painting, he develops original items that seek to show “the power of nature through textures and details,” always prioritizing recyclable materials and manual methods. The project has already won over local and international customers and now faces the challenge of finding a larger space to continue growing.

Correio dos Açores – What path did you take to create the studio?

Adolfo Mendonça (Founder of the “Adolfo Mendonça” Studio) – It all started when I went to study Equipment Design at the Faculty of Fine Arts in Lisbon, a course very focused on the production of pieces. I had always been involved in photography and painting, activities I practiced a lot before university, so I decided to take more practical elective courses. That’s where I discovered pottery.

After completing my degree, I interned at an architecture firm, but I quickly realized that I wanted to deepen my knowledge of ceramics. As I gained a better understanding of the practice, I realized that there was an opportunity to return to Terceira. Upon returning, I decided to build my own studio and adapted my parents’ garage, transforming it into my workplace. It became an area where I could create my own pieces and designs. Thus, in February 2017, the “Adolfo Mendonça” project was born.

I have also held two exhibitions in Angra do Heroísmo and participated in contemporary craft competitions.

How did the initiative come about and what is its objective?

I always wanted to design something and have a line of products that came from my ideas. With this in mind, my business was born, which has been growing due to the increased interest in this type of object.

Ceramics was the medium I discovered to materialize ideas, express feelings, memories, and sensations. With my creations, I want to showcase the beauty of the Azores and highlight the power of nature through textures and details.

How did photography and the arts influence your decision to start your own business?

I grew up in an environment where the arts prevailed. My interest in painting and photography was largely born from observing the work of my grandfather, who was an amateur photographer and collector. I also really enjoy other arts and architecture. In fact, before taking the course, I intended to study something related to architecture.

Nowadays, photography and design help a lot in the work I do, especially in advertising and marketing my platforms. By exploring my drawing and painting skills, I developed my own style, which is reflected in my pieces.

What are your main inspirations?

My greatest inspiration is the sea. In ceramics class, I developed many products with a focus on the ocean. The first piece I made was the Sea Urchin, which unlocked the process for the first line: the Sea Collection. Later, I designed a range dedicated to Christmas.

How did you come up with the idea of turning your garage into a studio?

My parents’ garage was the most economical way to start the business. I made use of a lot of furniture that my grandfather had in his workshop, from workbenches to vacuum cleaners. It became a multifaceted space with different areas: office, production area, photography studio, and it also serves as a warehouse. It is in this space that I intend to learn more techniques and always try to combine craftsmanship with design principles. However, this area has already become too small.

What are the main challenges you face today?

Without a doubt, the fact that the space is already cramped. It has become claustrophobic to work in it. I want to increase sales, take on bigger projects, give training courses and workshops, and that is no longer possible there.

Another challenge is related to the fact that we are on an island. Insularity influences transport, which makes raw materials more expensive. Shipping is getting worse, with more problems and higher costs. Even exporting is complicated, as the pieces are heavy and this increases the final price.

Who are your most frequent customers? What are the most sought-after products?

My main customers are from Terceira, followed by people from Lisbon. However, I have made several sales abroad, mainly to Europe. As for the most requested product, I don’t have a specific demand because I have a wide range of items. This allows me to present various ideas and have a range of prices that covers different types of customers.

What procedures do you apply?

I try to apply traditional methods depending on the type of piece. I mostly use general techniques, but I also make molds and sculptures. I try to use as many practices as possible.

How do you contribute to the sustainability of the Azores?

My communication is very focused on preserving the sea. My goal is for people to buy a piece so they can have a little bit of the ocean with them and not have to resort to the ocean itself. I use recycled materials in packaging and always use manual methods. I want to raise awareness about sustainability and its importance.

What are your plans for the future?

My main goal is to expand the area, open my own store, and have a place where I can offer training. But the focus is on creating my own business.

Do you feel that the population supports you?

Yes. Since I started presenting my work, the way the community has welcomed me has been spectacular. To this day, they support me and are always with me.

If you could leave a message to the community, what would it be?

We must raise awareness about the environment. We must realize that we live on a finite planet and that we must take care of it.

Diogo Simões Pires is a journalist for Correio dos Açores, Natalino Viveiros, director

other photos of the artwork