With the use of crochet and the compartmentalisation of forms, Vasconcelos reiterates the concept that individuals frequently behave and exist separately from their conscience, showing a lack of sufficient scrutiny of their perceptions. The paradox of lace is highlighted, as it served as a means for Portuguese women to address the emptiness in their lives, representing the sole form of expression in response to an entirely passive social situation.

“Lace decorates and protects, but protection is another manifestation of imprisonment. It’s for the spectator to decide what the crochet means for him, whether it’s showpiece or dungeon.”—Joana Vasconcelos, in an interview published in Joana Vasconcelos: Versailles (LeYa, 2012)

These new artworks are based on the artist’s sculptural ceramics placed on a rich, Baroque style background.

“ I don’t believe in telling people what they should see and I am always amazed by what they project onto my artworks, which is always connected with their own life experience. „

—Joana Vasconcelos