If you have ever wandered around Evora and spotted a rusty metalwork sculpture, chances are it’s a work from the hand of local artist, João Concha.

Background

Born in Santiago Maior (Alandroal), João now lives and works in Nossa Sra. de Graça Divor on the outskirts of Evora, where he has a gallery and workshop. Sculpting in wood from a young age, he only moved on to metalwork when he decided to make a water fountain for his vegetable garden from old pieces of scap metal he had lying around and first experimented with welding. He created his first artistic work in 2008 and in 2010 was ‘discovered’ and had his first exhibition of his works in 2011 in Evora, when the public became aware of him.

Up-cycling unwanted junk?

My partner comes from a long line of engineers and is fascinated by all kinds of metal artefacts (we have quite a collection at home picked up on our travels), so this is an art form that we can appreciate together. What we love about his sculptures is that they are largely made up of what you could call pre-loved metal utensils; car parts, tools and other everyday items – all re-purposed to create incredible works that (in my opinion) don’t take themselves too seriously.

Bring back the tree!

We first spotted what must be one of his largest pieces to date – a life-size tree – that was in the main Praça Giraldo for many months last winter. Although it is still on display to the public, it has now been moved to one of city’s parks and there is an active petition in place by residents of Evora to get the town hall to move it back.

Where to see more

We have been told that João is very approachable so apart from contacting him directly and setting up a time to visit his atelier in Nossa Sra. de Graça Divor, you can also view his works in the courtyard and reception of the stunning Casa Morgado Esporão hotel in the old town and until the end of July he has an exhibition called ‘As Obras de Misericórdia’ (works of mercy) at the Museu da Misericórdia.