Artist from Portugal 

Marita Setas Ferro, born in 1967 in Beira, Mozambique, is a Portuguese cultural manager specializing in art, fashion, sustainability, and crafts. She integrates these fields in innovative projects as a fashion designer, sculptor, culture manager, and creative director. Ferro focuses on Fine Craft and heritage, merging crafts with design and art to create impactful projects.

Ferro is the Founder and Board President of Between Parallels – Ass. for Design and Sustainable Development, and a board member of Portugal à Mão. Since 2012, she has held an artisan professional card and craft production unit, training in craft, design, textiles, and fashion. Her notable works include the “Soft Works” series and “Wearable Sculptures,” exhibited in Portugal and at World Art Dubai, selected for COLLECT OPEN 2024 London), Future Icons Selects/London Craft Week 2024, 74th A-ONE exhibition, Silvermine Arts Center, Canaan, Connecticut, USA and several on-line exhibitions.

INTERVIEW with Marita Setas Ferro

Carmela Loiacono talks with Marita Setas Ferro who takes part with her leather sculpture “Symbol #2” in the International Art Exhibition STORIES OF IDENTITY – From hidden places to daily life in Matera, at cultural hypogeum Lega Navale Italiana Matera-Magna Grecia.

Carmela Loiacono – Please introduce yourself and talk about the selected work you exhibited during the exhibition STORIES OF IDENTITY – From hidden places to daily life. 
Marita Setas Ferro – I’m a Portuguese artist that works within several areas: art, fashion, sustainability and crafts and I like to combine them in new and impactful approaches. I’ve been exhibiting and also developing and curating exhibitions dedicated to Fine Craft and Sustainable Design. 
Focused on the Fine Craft and heritage with a desire to combine crafts with design and art, I always tried to developed unique and distinct art pieces and artistic projects that combine different aspects in which the artistic perspective, the connection to crafts and the need to positivity impactfully people’s life has always been a constant.

Carmela Loiacono – How would you describe your creative process? What or who influenced or is influencing your work?
Marita Setas Ferro – My creative process is deeply rooted in my visual perception, where small details, lighting, images, and reflections capture my attention and inspire me to stay curious. This heightened awareness leads me to seek out more information, adding layers to my creative vision. Exhibitions and museums are also a constant wellspring of inspiration, fueling my work with fresh ideas and perspectives.
When beginning a project, I start with a broad theme and gather images, ideas, and relevant information. Once I feel ready, I select the materials and techniques that best fit the concept, moving into sketches or collages. Often, I can clearly visualize the final piece in my mind, making the process of bringing it to life smoother and more intentional. Each step is a journey, blending intuition with structure, transforming ideas into tangible art.∑

Carmela Loiacono – What do you think about shared art on social media? Could it be an alternative way of communicating contemporary art?
Marita Setas Ferro – Sharing artwork on social media is incredibly exciting because it allows us to showcase our creations to a global audience instantly and effortlessly. The reach and speed of digital platforms mean that our work can connect with more people, including curators, galleries, and fellow artists, fostering a network of creativity and collaboration. Social media becomes a dynamic space for inspiration, feedback, and exposure—turning what was once a local showcase into a worldwide art community.

Carmela Loiacono – What are your future goals and/or projects?
Marita Setas Ferro – My future goals and projects naturally evolve from my creative journey. I’m actively pursuing opportunities to showcase my work at various exhibitions and biennials in textile and fiber art, which will allow me to present pieces that weave together textiles, leather, and other materials in unique, unexpected ways. I’m constantly exploring new approaches and materials that better express my artistic vision, pushing boundaries and discovering fresh avenues for creativity. Each project is a chance to deepen my practice and reach new audiences, connecting with the art world through an ever-evolving tapestry of techniques and textures.

More about Marita Setas Ferro: www.setasferro.com