Marta
Afonso

Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?

I live in Vila Nova de Gaia – a city adjacent to Porto – but it’s a little quieter and more accessible. My work is done in my studio in downtown Porto, where I also teach Fashion Design at Escola Profissional Artística Árvore.

Do you have a favourite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?

When I feel like relaxing, the first thing I want to do is be in nature and fortunately this is easily possible because, just 10 or 15 minutes away, there are green parks and an incredible coastline with uncrowded beaches. I recommend Porto City Park with its impressive lake and lush green trees, which is located very close to the beach, allowing you to have a drink and watch the sunset over the sea. A perfect end to a busy day!

Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?

Portugal has just seen legislative elections and the results were shocking for my generation to see an extreme right-wing party gain so much power. On the other hand, it’s increasingly difficult to rent a house or studio in the center of Porto – the city is full of digital nomads and tourists, which brings an interesting dynamism and interculturality but, on the other hand, leads to a rise in prices that is impossible for Portuguese residents to afford.

In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years – and what has not?

In recent years, the city of Porto has experienced a great cultural dynamism. There are several must-see museums, such as the Serralves Museum, the Soares dos Reis Museum, the Palácio da Bolsa or the Tram Museum. But more than that, there are the countless film and music festivals and events that take place throughout the year. Unfortunately, unbridled tourism has led to some problems, such as traffic that is almost always chaotic, sidewalks occupied by terraces, unclean streets, high prices and a lot of noise.

Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers – whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?

Fortunately, there are still some local artisans as well as traditional stores and restaurants. I recommend a visit to Rua da Picaria, where you’ll find several carpenters. In terms of stores, the ones I know best are those selling fabrics and trims.

The Armazém dos Linhos, with its traditional chita’s fabrics, is a must-see, as is the Casa Botónia with buttons of all kinds and shapes. For a taste of the local delicacies, I recommend stopping by the Bolhão Market and enjoying a glass of Port wine accompanied by „boroa“ bread and grilled sardines.

Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?

I don’t know many innovative things, but I can mention crossing the Arrábida bridge, an extreme activity that offers a unique experience with an incredible view of the city.

Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?

For this I have to mention época restaurant, which is near Palácio de Cristal gardens. It’s a small restaurant, with a short, simple menu of three or four options that change daily. The menu is exclusively vegetarian and makes a careful selection of organic and seasonal ingredients! It’s worth trying the hummus on slow-fermented bread, enjoying the flavors and a relaxing playlist.

Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?

Here I must once again mention Armazém dos Linhos and its range of “chitas”, a printed cotton fabric from India that was first brought to Europe by the Portuguese in the 15th century. It’s worth appreciating its floral patterns and worn colors. In this store, you’ll also find all kinds of linen fabrics, a more ecological alternative to cotton, and various unique, handmade gifts.

What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?

I have a dog and I go for long walks with her every day. As my region is rainy a lot of the time, I use the AccuWeather app for the weather as it tells me when it’s going to rain by the minute! Lately I’ve also been a fan of Vinted because it makes more and more sense to opt for second-hand clothes. I want to start personalizing some of them with illustrations and hand printing to give them a new lease of life. Finally, as I have trouble falling asleep, another of my favorite apps is Insight Timer, which offers a wide range of daily meditations and relaxations. I highly recommend it!

Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?

In my day-to-day life, I consume a few Portuguese and international podcasts. I avoid finding out about things on television or radio because I think they are biased media. In terms of information, I recommend Fumaça, an independent, progressive and dissident investigative journalism podcast. It is non-profit and its work is entirely financed by the public who contribute to the project.

Imagine you could be mayor for a year – what would you change?

As far as the creative sector is concerned, I would prioritise the redevelopment of some of the many empty spaces in the city and make them available to artists from various fields so that they can work and exhibit their work there.

One last question: If you could choose another place to live – regardless of financial or time constrains – which one would you choose?

I would love to live in Italy for its inspiring charm, picturesque landscapes, inviting sea and irresistible food.