“Drawing has always been at the centre of my work, so the technique of etching lines directly onto a metal plate felt like the most natural form of printmaking to me. It was a magical process to see my drawings reveal themselves as embossed fine art prints. Suddenly their atmosphere transformed. As intaglio etchings, they seemed to possess so much presence and mystery.”
One of Mirry’s very considered responses about Atelier Citrina. Her fascination with this technique, however, soon evolved beyond personal practice—it became the foundation of a greater vision.
It was this unexpected passion, combined with the deep-seated desire to create a space where artists could learn from one another’s perspectives and practices, that led Mirry and her partner Phillipe to establish Atelier Citrina, Portugal’s first entirely non-toxic printmaking studio. The location of their atelier was not chosen at random; rather, it was the result of a moment of profound connection with the landscape. For years, Mirry and Phillipe dreamed of establishing an open-access printmaking studio, originally envisioning it in London. However, after being captivated by the charm of Sintra, in an instant, it became clear: this place, imbued with magic, was destined to be the home to their printmaking atelier, as well as the new residence for Mirry, Phillipe, and their families.
Atelier Citrina is now nestled in Eugaria, a forested village on the slopes of the Serra de Sintra. More precisely, its home, Quinta do Pomar da Fonte, lies within the Sintra Natural Park, just a ten-minute bicycle ride from the Monserrate Palace and its exquisite gardens. With the atelier situated at the edge of the Serra, nature effortlessly spills into the space. The filtered light of the trees falls upon the workbenches, and through the windows, one can catch glimpses of the resident red squirrel darting along the branches.
This seamless integration with nature not only shapes the atmosphere of the atelier but also reinforces Mirry and Phillipe’s commitment to sustainability. Their awareness of the environmental impact of traditional printmaking ignited their determination to minimize their ecological footprint. The duo hopes to spark a small yet meaningful revolution—one that challenges conventions, promotes safer alternatives, and proves that artistic tradition and environmental consciousness can coexist in perfect harmony.
For Phillipe, this commitment is not merely professional—it is deeply personal. “The two of us—like many others—are deeply aware of the challenges we face regarding environmental preservation, climate change, and sustainability. It can feel overwhelming at times, and having children has only heightened my concerns,” Phillipe shares with us.
Setting up the atelier was an education in itself. They delved deep into non-toxic printmaking methods, and even with years of experience as printmakers, it often felt like starting anew. These safer techniques differ significantly from the traditional methods they had once mastered. Yet, despite the differences in process, one thing remains unchanged: the magic of seeing an image emerge from the press. The process to reach that point is what has changed so dramatically. For them, adopting these sustainable practices is more than a necessity—it is an extension of their core values, rooted in a profound love and respect for the Earth.
Atelier Citrina is evolving into a vibrant community hub where both established and emerging artists come together to refine their practice, explore new ideas, and engage in a dynamic creative exchange. As an open access studio members and non-members are invited to use the facilities and develop their printmaking practice independently. Beyond its role as a creative space, the atelier offers something just as valuable: an escape from the digital noise of modern life.
“In our experience, etching is meditative, surprising, and an endlessly evolving artform. It has a way of pulling you in, revealing its layers over time, and becoming something truly addictive. Moreover, what participants are starting to recognise whilst here is that there’s something deeply refreshing about engaging with such a tactile medium—a welcome antithesis to the constant barrage of digital screens. In the focused, hands-on process of etching, they get a genuine break from the digital world, a chance to rediscover the joy of working with their hands and the satisfaction that comes with creating something tangible,” Mirry concludes wonderfully.
In addition to ongoing workshops for adults and creative programs for children, there are also special events coming up soon.
