Alexandra Condeço, from Évora, has been dedicated to handicrafts for 30 years through her brand Artes Gémeas. The project began as a hobby after the birth of her twin daughters and evolved into a side activity alongside her main profession at Epral. Alexandra started with painting and, after attending a course, developed new techniques over the decades, working with materials such as ceramic, resin and fashion accessories.
In 2026, Alexandra makes her debut at the Feira da Luz, in Montemor-o-Novo, an event she knows well through the environment of craft fairs she has participated in over the years. At the fair, she presents a collection of pieces that reflect her creativity and dedication, being herself who handles the entire creative process, from sewing to assemblies.
During the pandemic, Artes Gémeas experienced a significant growth moment, driven mainly by the production of fabric masks, which became essential in daily life. What began as a necessity turned into an opportunity to give greater visibility to her work, allowing the brand to continue growing while maintaining the essence that was at its origin.
For Alexandra, handicrafts is more than an occupation: it is a way of taking care of herself, a moment of concentration and creativity that works as therapy. Despite acknowledging that making a living from handicrafts requires many hours of work and does not always bring the recognition it deserves, Alexandra assures that the love for what she does makes all the difference.
