Art saved me

It took me most of my life to break free from the rule-based and restrictive environment I grew up in. Being told who I was, how to live my life, and the constant struggle to fit in while feeling that I don’t belong have led me to a self-discovery journey.

Sometimes we get through life feeling that someone else is in the driver’s seat. We may end up in places or with people we never imagined, but maybe that is how life is showing us the right path. I had to go through many ‘wrongs’ to find my ‘right’ - re-discover my path and my passion for art. But I do it my way.

Art saved me.

Here is the short version of my story…

Hi, I’m Vered.

An international selling contemporary artist living and creating from the coastline of Portugal. 

I had to get lost for most of my life to find a way to my first love - painting. Becoming a mum in 2018 pushed me to pause and think about my next chapter, as well to realise that I spent so many years feeling restless and unhappy because I did the wrong things.

Moving from London to Portugal in late 2020 was the beginning of this exciting chapter. I instantly felt at home in Portugal. I was no longer restless. And I was intentionally seeking for my purpose. I don’t know whether it’s the Atlantic Ocean that whispered in my ear, or the ability to sit and reflect, but a little voice inside my heart reminded me that I love painting. Overnight (I am not joking) I decided to become an abstract artist. I never looked back. 

What’s my work about?

My artwork explores the depth, complexity and multiple layers of the stories and memories we carry with us. My paintings invite viewers to dive deep into hidden and unknown moments, fearlessly peel the layers, and embrace the power of self-acceptance and authenticity. 

My work, materials and process are pure reflections of growing up next to the Mediterranean Sea, and my life today on the coastline of Portugal. I paint mainly with acrylic, incorporating sand and ocean water in my paintings. Water is essential to my work since it allows free flow of paint, soft borderlines, and unpredictable moments in my process. I’m driven by curiosity and the joy of exploration, and love using a variety of unconventional tools collected by my son and I in nature. My creative process is free from rules and offers a deep connection with my soul, my past and present.