From Passion: My Story

This is a story that began at a very young age, through contact with manual work that has always accompanied my journey. Two major perspectives became the pillars of what I do today. On one hand, a fascination with wood, not only with the way it can be worked, but also with its unmistakable beauty. On the other, Asia and the mysticism surrounding the samurai and that entire culture.

Immersing myself in this world quickly led me back to the foundations, the blacksmith. For me, one of the most important professions across different cultures. I was, and still am, fascinated by the way metal is moved without apparent effort, and by the growing urge to experience what it would feel like to pick up a hammer and shape iron.

My first steps were the creation of cutting tools for woodworking, accompanied, of course, by the dream of the samurai sword. I soon realised it would be a long journey.

I thought that trying my luck in Japan would be the most faithful and secure path. I researched extensively and attempted, in every way possible at the time, to contact masters who might accept me as an apprentice. Feeling a great distance, and as this was my dream trip, I travelled to Japan for a month. I carry with me stories and moments that will stay with me for the rest of my life. I had the privilege of seeing museum pieces up close that were once weapons and cutting tools. I managed to visit a renowned bladesmith in Japan, attempting to exchange a few words. Language was a major barrier, but I returned encouraged and determined. I would need to learn the language or find alternatives.

It was at this time that I met the great master Pavel Bolf, based in the Czech Republic, and had the pleasure of spending several days in his company. I attentively witnessed every stage of the creation of a tanto blade, from steel production to rough forging and quenching. I learned a great deal, above all through observation.

Back in Portugal, and motivated by everything I had seen, I began to test what I had learned. I acquired more books, more information, and continued to practise, experimenting with everything I saw being done by the great masters. In this way, I grew in bladesmithing as a self taught apprentice.

Today, I am motivated by creation itself, with the aim of producing increasingly bold pieces, both in their construction and in their detail. I feel deeply grateful to all those around me who continue to support and believe in me.