Rita Martins Pereira

My name is Rita Maria Martins Pereira.I am a multidisciplinary textile artist, designer, and entrepreneur with roots in a multicultural family of crafters, artists, and designers from Brazil, India, Italy, and Angola.This rich heritage influences my approach to contemporary textile design and sustainable fashion.With formal studies in textile design, fashion design, and styling for the Media, I have developed a deep understanding of color, form, and material. My international experience, living in Portugal, the UK, Spain, and beyond, has shaped my artistic language and expanded my connection to textile traditions from around the world.I speak several languages, which enables me to collaborate and communicate in diverse creative contexts.As the founder and creative force behind Cross Lights, I design and handweave unique textile pieces using eco-friendly materials and traditional weaving techniques.Each piece tells a story of color, emotion, and purpose, created slowly and ethically, with a focus on artistic quality and detail.My work reflects a commitment to sustainable craftsmanship, women’s empowerment, and joyful expression through textiles.I have participated in several international art residencies and design programs, including Culture Moves Europe, European Craft Days, and the Creative Exchange Residency by the European Crafts Alliance and the World Crafts Council Europe.Alongside my practice, I nurture my artistic growth by exploring plant-based fibers that I collect myself. I am passionate about ongoing residencies, creative collaborations, and the vibrant energy of group exploration, and I believe deeply in the importance of sharing knowledge within the global craft community.