Cerâmica XL

The Cerâmica XL project, developed by the informal artist collective Convergências, proposes a reflection on ceramics as a contemporary artistic language, exploring the relationships between scale, matter, and creation. Grounded in an experimental approach, it brings together diverse authorial practices that challenge the traditional boundaries of ceramics. The large scale of the artworks serves as both a conceptual and operational axis, enabling the creation of large-format pieces that intensify their physical presence and their relationship with the exhibition space.

 The Convergências collective comprises artists from distinct backgrounds, united by an interest in collaborative creation and dialogue between disciplines, knowledge, and techniques. More than an exhibition, Cerâmica XL establishes itself as a space for continuous experimentation and reinvention of contemporary ceramics. In recent years, the group has promoted exhibitions, workshops, and other initiatives dedicated to studio ceramics, while also highlighting the value of artisanal production in the Tomar region. This is achieved through a collaboration with the Figueiredo family of Casa das Talhas, whose pottery tradition has been preserved for nearly three centuries in Asseiceira. 

Drawing upon this technical and cultural heritage, the artists have developed large-format ceramic sculptures that combine the traditional coiling technique—characteristic of large-scale clay vessel (talha) production—with contemporary approaches to artistic creation, underscoring the innovative potential of traditional technologies.

The exhibition also features a photographic display by Ana Filipa Scarpa, dedicated to documenting the creative process and the work carried out in one of the few remaining operational talha potteries in Portugal.

Opening: July 17th | 17:30

Artists:
Carlos Ribeiro
Diogo Rosa
Elsa Gonçalves
Fernando Sarmento
Heitor Figueiredo
Izilda Gallo
Maya Fernandes Kempe
Sandra Borges
Stela Ivanova
Stefania Barale
Virgínia Fróis