OdeRola
Artist/Designer
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Mariana Rola Pereira (b. 1988, Macao) lives and works in Portugal. Mariana’s work is inspired by her cultural diversity that she updates with the exploration of her Portuguese roots and new cultures (she has lived in Brazil, Italy, among other inspiring trips). Her whimsical and vibrant tapestries depict her creativity and wonder towards the (extra)ordinary things in life. She uses an ancient Portuguese stitch - the Arraiolos stitch to bring her designs alive.
Rola's cultural heritage - a mix of Cantonese and Portuguese culture, an Ecuadorian grandmother and a Chinese great grandfather - calls her to contemplate the world with different perspectives and experiences. Inspired by the old-meets-new, she balances between a contemporary approach of techniques and designs and her curiosity for universal archetypes and concepts to translate new stories into works of art.
A self-taught Artist that uses her Landscape Architecture background to analyse her surroundings and reflect her aesthetic and explorations into unique tapestries.
Her creations are an evolving process that cannot be captured in a singular style rather than an expansion of several feelings and dialogs - odes. Her desire to grasp the meanings of our existence and embroider the notes of the conversation is her path to expand beauty, contemplation and belonging.
OdeRola becomes an homage to heritage, poetry and all things made by hand.
"My work intricately weaves together cultural heritage, belonging and memory. At the core of my practice is a deep connection to my Portuguese cultural heritage, particularly through techniques like the Arraiolos stitch and the use of Portuguese materials and suppliers. This embroidery method, rooted in Portuguese tradition, acts as a bridge between the past and the present. This fusion not only preserves traditional craftsmanship but also invites a dialogue about cultural identity within contemporary concepts. I create space for dialogue about cultural fusion, the challenges and joys of blending different identities and states of being, inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty of belonging in all its forms.
The different materials and techniques such as the Arraiolos stitch and weaving are not merely artistic choices but a means of joining together personal and collective narratives. Each textile piece is a manifestation of this journey, allowing me to convey memories and emotions tied to my upbringing. Through color, pattern, and texture, I express the warmth and diversity of my roots, creating a vibrant narrative that resonates with shared human experiences. Belonging also extends beyond personal identity to encompass community and connection. I wonder about conversations about inclusivity, fostering a sense of unity among different backgrounds, encouraging others to reflect on their own experiences of belonging, bridging gaps and celebrating the uniqueness of each individual’s heritage."
Rola's cultural heritage - a mix of Cantonese and Portuguese culture, an Ecuadorian grandmother and a Chinese great grandfather - calls her to contemplate the world with different perspectives and experiences. Inspired by the old-meets-new, she balances between a contemporary approach of techniques and designs and her curiosity for universal archetypes and concepts to translate new stories into works of art.
A self-taught Artist that uses her Landscape Architecture background to analyse her surroundings and reflect her aesthetic and explorations into unique tapestries.
Her creations are an evolving process that cannot be captured in a singular style rather than an expansion of several feelings and dialogs - odes. Her desire to grasp the meanings of our existence and embroider the notes of the conversation is her path to expand beauty, contemplation and belonging.
OdeRola becomes an homage to heritage, poetry and all things made by hand.
"My work intricately weaves together cultural heritage, belonging and memory. At the core of my practice is a deep connection to my Portuguese cultural heritage, particularly through techniques like the Arraiolos stitch and the use of Portuguese materials and suppliers. This embroidery method, rooted in Portuguese tradition, acts as a bridge between the past and the present. This fusion not only preserves traditional craftsmanship but also invites a dialogue about cultural identity within contemporary concepts. I create space for dialogue about cultural fusion, the challenges and joys of blending different identities and states of being, inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty of belonging in all its forms.
The different materials and techniques such as the Arraiolos stitch and weaving are not merely artistic choices but a means of joining together personal and collective narratives. Each textile piece is a manifestation of this journey, allowing me to convey memories and emotions tied to my upbringing. Through color, pattern, and texture, I express the warmth and diversity of my roots, creating a vibrant narrative that resonates with shared human experiences. Belonging also extends beyond personal identity to encompass community and connection. I wonder about conversations about inclusivity, fostering a sense of unity among different backgrounds, encouraging others to reflect on their own experiences of belonging, bridging gaps and celebrating the uniqueness of each individual’s heritage."
Lisbon Design Week 2025 — 2026
