While wandering the charming streets of Coimbra, bellies full from a tasty lunch, we came across a tiny store selling artwork. We passed by but then doubled back to take a closer look; there was something about the artwork that made us want to see more.
Whimsical Style
The store itself was one small room, and the artist was hunched over her desk working on a piece. She paused to say hello and tell us a bit more about her work/style. We learned that her name is Marcia and she makes all prints on-site with black Bic pens and watercolors (Winsor & Newton is her favorite brand). She showed us several pieces that she was working on, and even demoed a few different water colors, including a treatment she does using metallic powders. We were smitten.
Sadie picked out a beautiful bird print (she LOVES birds) that Marcia had made earlier that same day. Paige - after much hemming & hawing about which she wanted - ultimately opted for a close-up of a girl with wind flowing through her hair. Marcia had finished that particular print literally minutes earlier; she hadn’t even signed it yet (we got to watch her sign it before it was packed up for us).
Everything Has Meaning
We asked Marcia about her store’s name, “Ilustração ao Vento”. It means “illustration into the wind”. Marcia said it’s because her artwork - much like life - is always evolving.
It was such a treat to meet the talented Marcia. We are grateful she took the time to show the girls - especially Sadie who is a little artist herself - her craft. I can’t help but think we were meant to run across Marcia & her store.
It feels like the four of us are illustrations in the wind this year. Always in motion. Always evolving. I hope we stay that way, long after this year of travel.
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