Mariana Santos (aka ‘Mariana, a Miserável’) – A Portrait of Quiet Observation

Mariana Santos, better known as “Mariana, a Miserável” (the miserable one), is an illustrator whose work delves into the complexities of human experience with remarkable sensitivity and humor. Born in Lírio, Portugal, in 1986, her artistic journey began not with grand ambitions but with a simple fascination for detail—a passion inherited from her childhood spent nurturing beauty amidst humble beginnings. This early appreciation for observation would become a cornerstone of her distinctive visual language, informing her meticulous approach to composition and color palettes throughout her career.

Early Life & Artistic Beginnings

From a young age, Mariana exhibited an innate curiosity about the world around her—a desire to capture its essence in art. She pursued Graphic Design at Escola Superior de Artes e Design (ESAD) in Caldas da Rainha, honing her technical skills and gaining a foundational understanding of design principles. This academic grounding provided her with invaluable tools for translating her imaginative vision into tangible creations. Subsequently, she continued her artistic education at Faculdade de Bellas Artes da Universidade do Porto (FBAUP), delving deeper into artistic theory and expanding her creative horizons. Despite choosing to prioritize her passion—a decision that might seem unconventional—Mariana steadfastly pursued illustration as her primary vocation, embracing a life characterized by dedication and unwavering commitment.

Exploring Themes of Reality & Emotion

Her artwork consistently tackles profound themes – expectations versus reality, the bittersweet beauty of everyday life, and those moments where vulnerability shines through. Mariana’s illustrations aren't merely aesthetically pleasing; they invite contemplation about human experience and challenge viewers to confront uncomfortable truths with humor and compassion. She skillfully captures fleeting emotions and subtle gestures, conveying narratives that resonate deeply with audiences. Her distinctive style blends realism with whimsical imagination, creating images that are both grounded in observation and infused with playful creativity. She employs a muted color palette—often dominated by blues and greens—to evoke feelings of melancholy and introspection, mirroring her own self-awareness.

Notable Achievements & Collaborations

Mariana Santos has garnered recognition for her artistic talent and unwavering dedication to her craft. Her work has been showcased in numerous exhibitions – both solo and collaborative – across Portugal and internationally, demonstrating her versatility as an illustrator. She’s participated in events like COSMOS: A Spacetime Odyssey, showcasing her ability to engage with large audiences and communicate complex ideas effectively. Furthermore, she's collaborated with prominent brands and design studios, cementing her reputation as a respected artist within the creative community. Notable projects include collaborations with Society6 for their “Public Order” collective show, participation in events like COSMOS: A Spacetime Odyssey, and solo exhibitions at Objectos Misturados and Museo Bordalo Pinheiro. Her illustrations have appeared in publications such as Visão magazine and Estante da Fnac, reaching a wide readership and establishing her presence in the literary landscape.

The Philosophy of ‘Mariana, a Miserável’

“Mariana, a Miserável” – “the miserable one” – isn't merely a pseudonym; it embodies Mariana Santos’s artistic ethos. She describes herself as someone who "doesn't know how to draw," yet her illustrations are remarkably detailed and imbued with humor—a deliberate contrast intended to provoke reflection on our perceptions of life and the importance of embracing imperfection. Her books, “Little Miserable Book” I & II, serve as a poignant reminder that true beauty lies in accepting vulnerability and pursuing dreams with unwavering determination. She encourages viewers to step outside their comfort zones and embrace challenges, recognizing that even moments of sadness can inspire growth and resilience.