ink + alma
Ink art meets
heart + soul
Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time — Thomas Merton
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Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time — Thomas Merton •
The artist
behind the art
I’m an artist with a deep passion for creative expression, currently based in Bastrop, TX — just outside of Austin. Though I now call this sweet and quaint city home, my roots are in São Paulo, Brazil, which gives me the unique experience of living between two rich and beautiful cultures.
Drawing has always been my go-to for reflection and relaxation. It’s not just a creative outlet but a personal passion—one that allows me to find balance and perspective in a busy world.
Through my art, I’ve discovered how deeply others connect with these intricate designs, which inspired me to share my work beyond my own sketchbook. I’m excited to continue this journey, offering pieces that bring peace, inspiration, and beauty to others.
What is a mandala?
Mandalas have many interpretations, but at their core, they are deeply spiritual symbols. According to Wikipedia, a mandala is a ritual and spiritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism, representing the universe. The word “mandala” itself comes from the classical Indian language of Sanskrit, meaning “circle.” However, a mandala is much more than just a geometric shape — it symbolizes wholeness and serves as a cosmic diagram, illustrating our connection to the infinite universe, both around us and within us.
As an artist, I’ve developed my own perspective on the mandala. To me, they are visual representations of the soul. Our souls are constantly evolving, shaped by our experiences and emotions, which is why no two mandalas are the same. Each one is as unique as the journey we are on.
FAQ
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My process begins with intention. Each mandala I create starts as a reflection of a feeling, thought, or experience I want to express visually. I take inspiration from the world around me—nature, emotions, or even moments of stillness—and let that guide the initial design.
Technically, the process is simple yet mindful. I begin by selecting my medium, typically paper or wood. With a pencil, protractor, and compass in hand, I carefully mark out the framework to ensure symmetry. From there, I design the mandala layer by layer, starting from the center and working outward, allowing the shapes and patterns to evolve organically. Once I’m satisfied with the design, I go over everything with drawing pens, adding the final touches to bring it to life.
It’s a meditative experience, where I find clarity and balance, and I hope to evoke that same sense of calm and connection in those who view my work. And just like that—boom!—a mandala is born.
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I believe that high-quality art begins with high-quality materials, which is why I choose the best tools and mediums for my work. Over time, I’ve experimented with various brands and materials, and I’ve learned that there’s no “right” or “wrong” choice—just what feels right for each piece.
Here’s a glimpse into what I use:
• Media: Wood panels, gesso panels, paper
• Drawing Supplies: Pencil, drawing pens, permanent markers, acrylic markers, compass, protractor, eraser
• Varnish: To protect the finished artwork, I apply a spray varnish as the final step
If you have any questions about the materials I use or are curious about trying something new yourself, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to chat!
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The time it takes to complete a piece really depends on its size and the level of detail involved. Smaller pieces can take anywhere from 2 to 24 hours, while larger, more intricate works require significantly more time. And of course, when it comes to murals, that’s a whole different story! For example, one of my wall projects took around 4 months from preparation to completion.
Get in touch
Have a custom piece in mind or questions about my work? I’d love to hear from you! Feel free to reach out for custom requests, inquiries, or collaborations. I’m always excited to bring new ideas to life.