“Growing under two Suns” is a ceramic installation composed of three pieces: a flower vessel for the floor and two suns for the wall. It takes inspiration from Asturian folklore and the thistle flower, known as the flower of the sun. This plant, which grows on sunny northern slopes, has long been a symbol of protection, placed on doors to guard against storms and misfortune. Today it is a protected species, widely admired in the area for its resilience and lasting beauty.
The work combines this cultural heritage with a commitment to sustainability. Made from locally sourced clays and natural aggregates, it reflects the geological richness of Asturias. The artist applies circular practices by reusing broken fragments, reclaiming glazes and carefully processing pigments to minimise waste. Thus, this installation is both a work of art and a tribute to nature, bringing material and meaning together in perfect harmony.
DETAILS
Detail of the sunflower and thistle motifs forming the wall-mounted section of the piece. (Images provided by the artisan and photographed by Marcos Morilla.)
Detail of the vessel forming the floor-based part of the installation.
Inspiration
Sunset view that partially inspired the artwork. (Pictures taken and provided by the artisan.)
View of the artisan’s workshop, a space filled with plants and everyday objects that inspire her creative process.
Location
The selection of this artefact is the responsibility of designer Maria Bruno Néo and is part of her doctoral work ‘A HISTÓRIA INCOMPLETA DO DESIGN PORTUGUÊS: CONTRIBUTOS PARA A INSCRIÇÃO DA DESIGNER HELENA CARDOSO/THE INCOMPLETE HISTORY OF PORTUGUESE DESIGN: CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE INSCRIPTION OF DESIGNER HELENA CARDOSO’ supervised by Professors Susana Barreto and Luís Mendonça, both from the Faculty of Fine Arts at the University of Porto/Portugal.