Monika Morito

Olá Moni - our first artist in residence

Bem-vindo ao Âmago. We welcomed our first artist-in-residence, Monika Morito, with immense excitement. In love with our serene surroundings, Moni crafted bespoke paintings inspired by our natural environment, carefully selecting colours and designs that capture our essence.

We first came across Moni on Instagram (@monikamorito) and we fell in love with her style right away. A unique blend of palm trees and abstract art resonated with our vision of Âmago's warmth and charm.

During her near two-week stay in room 4, Moni breathed life into her art. Hosting her was a delight, giving us the chance to unravel Moni's creative drive and uncover the story behind her choice to pursue her artistic dreams full-time.

What made you decide to be an artist? And when did you take the leap to do it full time? 

Ever since I can think back, I've actually always wanted to paint and make a living from my art. And in the end, my time in Pandemic actually gave me the push I needed to quit my permanent job and start pursuing my dream of living and working as an artist full time.How has your background and city influenced your style? 

In my art you can tell easily that it's influenced by the tropical nature, so of course my background in the Philippines is an important aspect in my art. And I think living here in the city of Munich just reinforced more and more the longing for the sea, the sun, the tropical nature, etc.

How has your style developed over time? 

I would say my style has definitely become more abstract and stylised over time. I now work with larger formats and experiment more with surfaces and different textures.

What do you love about Portugal and how has it inspired you with past and current collections?

What I love about Portugal is the nature, its landscape and the vastness of the beaches. But I am also inspired by Portuguese craftsmanship.

What has been your biggest inspiration for the collection you have painted for Âmago?

Definitely the three different places: Olhão / Loulé / Armona and of course the wonderful people we got to meet during our time at Amago.

Your videos on Instagram are accompanied by interesting and eclectic soundtracks, what are your favourite songs or artists to listen to while you paint? 

Oh I actually enjoy listening to R&B/Soul and Hip Hop music the most, such as: Frank Ocean, The Internet, A Tribe Called Quest, Little Simz, etc to name a few.

What are your plans for the future in terms of your artistic career?

I think my stay at Âmago has made me realise how much I would love to spend a longer period of time abroad, preferably by the sea of course. And just to see what it does to my art and myself.

Any top tips for how to spend a few days in the Algarve?

The owners gave us a tip to explore the smaller islands near Faro. This time we had only had the chance to visit Armona, but we will definitely come back and explore the others as well.

Check out Moni’s Instagram & Website and Follow Us at Âmago.