Ana Aragão (Porto, 1984) is an architect with a degree from the School of Architecture, University of Porto, where she entered at the top of her class. Following her internship, she won a scholarship to pursue a doctorate in Coimbra (Department of Architecture – University of Coimbra); Ana also gained teaching experience as she was invited by the University of Porto (FAUP) and Coimbra (DARQ) to be a guest lecturer. She decided to interrupt her scientific research to dedicate herself exclusively to illustration. She continues her work on the city and her imaginary urban landscapes through her graphic reflections and drawing of her mental atlas. The world of architecture gave rise to her fascination for drawing cities, both real and imaginary. Intrigued by the emotional maps which originate from our daily experience between the inhabitant and exterior spaces, her intricate "anagraphs" are merely a pretext for a critical analysis on habitat, construction methods and, above all, the modern way of life. Ana Aragão’s dedication to drawing and painting has earned her national and international recognition, highlighted especially in her participation in the 2014 Venice Biennale, a cover story in the Chinese "Home", and having been chosen by Luerzer's Archive - "200 Best Illustrators Worldwide”. Ana also collaborates and has partnerships with hallmark brands such us Porto Barros (100 anos Porto Barros, Coleção Cidades Portuguesas), Tapeçarias Ferreira de Sá (Tapeçaria Eudóxia), Jofebar (Project FUTURE FRAMES), Schmidt Light Metal, Essência do Vinho, Vista Alegre, among others. She was also invited to develop specific projects around Portuguese cities, namely Lisboa (Meo Out Jazz), Espinho (Cartografia (des)encontrada), Braga (Noite Branca), Aveiro (Lugares Múltiplos) and Guimarães (Casa da Memória). Porto, the city where she lives and works, naturally holds a special place in all her works.
