The charming Miramar Bed And Breakfast
Renowned street artist André Saraiva invited me to his bed and breakfast, Miramar, in Portugal, which he created with Telka in the charming fishing village of Fonte da Telha to create illustrations for their menus and decor. The village, nestled along Portugal’s rugged and breathtaking coastline, felt like a hidden gem untouched by the hustle and bustle of modern life. The opportunity to work on a creative project in such a picturesque location was not only a professional privilege but also a personal adventure that left an indelible mark on my soul.
From the moment I arrived at Miramar, I was captivated by the serenity of the place. The bed and breakfast itself was a beautiful blend of rustic charm and contemporary artistic touches, a reflection of André’s eclectic style and vision. The building stood just a stone’s throw from the beach, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Mornings at Miramar were nothing short of magical. I would wake up to the gentle sound of the ocean waves crashing against the shore, a sound that quickly became my favorite form of music, far more calming than any playlist.
André’s hospitality was warm and welcoming, making me feel like I was more of a guest in his home than a collaborator on a project. His enthusiasm for art and his commitment to fostering creativity was contagious. He was always full of ideas and excitement, offering guidance while also giving me the creative freedom to bring my vision to life. It was the perfect balance of collaboration and independence, allowing me to immerse myself in my work while still feeling connected to a larger artistic community.
The project itself involved creating unique illustrations for Miramar’s menus and interior decor. The menus, which would be used for the café and restaurant housed within the bed and breakfast, were meant to capture the essence of the region—simple, fresh, and deeply rooted in the local culture. I wanted the illustrations to reflect the natural beauty of Fonte da Telha: the sea, the sand, and the local fishermen who played such an integral role in the village’s daily life. I spent hours sketching by the shore, drawing inspiration from the environment and the people around me.
One of the most memorable aspects of my time in Fonte da Telha was the friendships I formed with the local fishermen. Every morning, I would wander down to the beach, where the fishermen were busy pulling in their nets, their faces weathered by the sun and wind but always warm and welcoming. Despite the language barrier, we communicated through gestures and smiles, sharing stories of the sea and life in the village. They were incredibly generous, often offering me some of their freshest catches of the day. There’s something truly humbling about receiving a gift from the ocean, brought to shore by hands that have spent years mastering their craft.
In those moments, as I sat on the beach with the fishermen, sharing stories and fresh seafood, I felt a deep connection to the community and the land. It was a reminder of the simplicity and beauty of life, something that can be easily lost in the fast pace of the modern world. Fonte da Telha had a way of grounding me, reminding me of the importance of slowing down, appreciating the small moments, and finding inspiration in the world around me.
As the project progressed, my illustrations began to take shape, each one infused with the essence of Fonte da Telha. The menus I created were more than just functional; they became a reflection of the village’s soul. Each drawing was a celebration of the sea, the fishermen, and the sense of community that permeated every corner of the village. When I finally saw the finished product—my illustrations adorning the menus and the walls of Miramar—I felt a profound sense of accomplishment.
My time at Miramar was a creative journey, but more than that, it was an experience of personal growth. I left Fonte da Telha not only with a portfolio of new work but with memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. It was a reminder that art is not just about creating something beautiful; it’s about connecting with people, with places, and with moments that shape who we are.
