Discover / Meet the Artist

Interview with Luciano Rocha

"Once you become honest with yourself and make choices based on your passion, the world appears completely different."

Featuring

Luciano Rocha

14.02.2025

Luciano Rocha’s work fuses bold collage, upcycled materials, and sharp social commentary, creating a distinct visual language that defies conformity. Through a mix of vintage aesthetics, irreverent text, and layered imagery, Rocha’s art challenges expectations—whether by reclaiming discarded objects as canvases or infusing everyday materials with unexpected meaning. From confronting societal pressures to advocating for sustainability, Rocha’s practice is as much about self-expression as it is about provoking dialogue.

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Do you believe an artist's passion is something destined or a conscious choice?

The debate on whether an artist's passion is destined, or a conscious choice has intrigued many. Personally, I believe that an artist's passion is destined. This belief is rooted in the idea that art is a form of intuition, an innate ability that is inherently present within certain individuals. Art, at its core, is self-expression—how an individual perceives the world and translates those perceptions into a medium that can be appreciated by others. From a young age, I exhibited a strong interest in expressing my creativity.

As a child, I would voluntarily grab paper and pencils and spend hours drawing. I often took my mom's fashion magazines and meticulously sketched the female figures and their clothes. This was clearly a sign that I had a passion, sensitivity, and ability to draw. For a child of around 10 years old, these abilities were quite impressive and indicated a natural inclination towards art. It was an intuitive drive that I could not ignore, a calling that beckoned me to engage with the world through creativity. Artistic intuition cannot be taught. Usually, individuals with this gift have an intuitive understanding of colour, form, composition, and emotion. However, these skills can be honed and improved through formal education or self-teaching. The foundation of an artist's talent is inherent, but the refinement and mastery of their craft can be developed over time with dedication and practice.

However, the path of an artist is not always straightforward. External factors, such as societal expectations, financial pressures, and personal circumstances, can influence an individual's decision to pursue art as a career. While one may choose to ignore the call of their artistic passion in favour of a more secure and lucrative path, it does not diminish their identity as an artist. The essence of being an artist lies in the compulsion to create, regardless of whether it is pursued professionally.An artist's passion, therefore, is a blend of destiny and choice. While the innate drive to create is destined, the decision to embrace and cultivate this passion is a conscious choice. Artists must navigate the complexities of life, balancing their creative pursuits with practical considerations. This delicate dance between destiny and choice shapes their journey, allowing them to find their unique voice and artistic expression.

Moreover, luck plays a significant role in an artist's journey. Where you are, who you meet, and whether your art is seen by the right people can greatly impact your success. Choosing art as a career means making a living from your passion, and that requires a bit of luck. The right connections, opportunities, and exposure can make a world of difference in an artist's life. While talent and passion are essential, these external factors often determine whether an artist can sustain their practice and achieve recognition. So, I firmly believe that an artist's passion is destined. It is an inherent part of their identity, an intuitive drive to express and create. While external factors may influence their decision to pursue art as a career, the essence of being an artist remains unchanged. It is a calling that cannot be ignored, a passion that continues to burn brightly, guiding them through their creative journey.

How does your art engage with or comment on pressing contemporary issues—social, political, or environmental?

Art has always been a powerful medium for engaging with and commenting on pressing contemporary issues, and my work is no exception. I believe that my art comments on contemporary social issues by being unapologetically individual and expressing ideas that go beyond the shallow. It challenges social expectations that limit an individual's capacity to see different perspectives, think outside the box, and understand that it is okay to be different, to not conform, and even to be angry sometimes.

At first glance, some might think that some of the writings in my collage pieces are aggressive, displaying rude words. However, there is a deliberate intention behind this choice. It is not just for the sake of being rude; rather, it serves as a means of expressing raw emotions and relieving tension. Sometimes, what one needs is to expel and release built-up emotions. If you have a good sense of humour, you will understand the underlying message. In this way, by simply existing and expressing oneself, one engages in a political act. In a world where conformity often reigns, my art seeks to disrupt the status quo and provoke thought. It encourages viewers to question societal norms and consider alternative perspectives.

By embracing individuality and the complexity of human emotions, my work creates a space for dialogue and reflection. It challenges the notion that there is only one right way to be or to think and instead celebrates the diversity of human experience. Moreover, my art addresses contemporary environmental issues by emphasizing sustainability and upcycling. I consciously choose to reuse materials and upcycle what already exists rather than buying new raw materials. We have reached a point where continuing to pollute the environment is no longer viable, and it is everyone's responsibility to take action and adopt habits that will slowly improve our current situation. As artists, we have a platform to communicate and raise awareness about social, political, and environmental issues, and my work seeks to do just that.

I use discarded objects, such as ceramic plates and vases, as blank canvases for my collage ideas. This choice is not only a creative one but also a conscious decision to reduce my carbon footprint. By repurposing these materials, I contribute to reducing waste and promoting a more sustainable approach to artmaking. Through my art, I aim to inspire others to consider the impact of their actions on the environment and to think creatively about how they can make a difference. In addition to the environmental aspect, my use of discarded materials also carries a symbolic message. It reflects the idea that beauty and value can be found in the overlooked and the discarded. By transforming these objects into works of art, I challenge the notion of disposability and encourage a more mindful and sustainable approach to consumption. Art has the power to transcend boundaries and connect people on a deep level. It can inspire change and foster a sense of shared responsibility.

My work aims to contribute to this larger conversation by highlighting the interconnectedness of social, political, and environmental issues. It invites viewers to engage with these topics and consider their role in shaping a more just and sustainable world. By engaging with these topics through art, viewers are encouraged to reflect on their own actions and contributions toward creating a fairer and more sustainable society. It prompts them to consider how they can make a positive impact and support efforts to address pressing contemporary issues. Art, in its essence, is a powerful tool for change, and I am committed to using my creativity to make a positive impact on the world.

How do you measure the impact of your work—by its reception, its personal meaning, or something else?

I measure the impact of my work primarily by its personal meaning and the connections it fosters between the viewer and the art piece. Art is inherently subjective, and people's reactions to it can vary widely. What draws one person to an artwork might not resonate with another, and that diversity of response is part of what makes art so powerful.

People have different views, tastes, perspectives, and experiences, all of which shape their understanding and appreciation of art. My work speaks to a selected niche audience due to its unique subjects and design choices. It is quirky and unconventional, with a dry sense of humour and bold imagery and sayings. While this may not appeal to a broad audience, it creates a strong and meaningful connection with those who do appreciate it. When my art finds the right viewer, the connection is palpable. I often see the impact my work has on individuals and how it resonates with their thoughts and identities.

The smiles on their faces, the moments of recognition, and the feeling of shared understanding are all indicators of the impact of my work. When someone looks at my art and thinks, "Yes, this speaks to me," it reaffirms that I am not alone in my perspective and that my work has meaning to others as well. In addition to personal connections, I also measure the impact of my work through its ability to provoke thought and inspire dialogue. Art is a powerful medium of communication, allowing for the expression of complex ideas and emotions that might be difficult to convey through words alone. When my work sparks conversations or prompts viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and experiences, I consider that a significant measure of its impact.

Furthermore, the personal satisfaction and fulfilment I derive from creating art plays a crucial role in how I measure its impact. The process of creation is deeply personal and therapeutic for me. It allows me to explore my thoughts and emotions, make sense of the world around me, and channel my creativity into something tangible. The sense of accomplishment and joy that comes from seeing a finished piece that aligns with my vision is invaluable. Each completed work is a testament to my creative journey and personal growth. The emotional release and catharsis that come with creation are profound, making the entire artistic process deeply meaningful. Feedback from peers, mentors, and the art community also contributes to how I gauge the impact of my work. Constructive criticism and positive reinforcement from those I respect and admire help me grow as an artist and refine my craft. Engaging in an ongoing dialogue with the art world allows me to gauge the relevance and significance of my work. Ultimately, the impact of my art is multifaceted. It is not solely about its reception or personal meaning, but a combination of both, along with the connections it fosters, the dialogues it inspires, and the personal fulfilment it brings. My art reflects my journey as an artist and a human being, and its impact is measured by the ways in which it touches lives, including my own.

What unusual or unexpected sources of inspiration have deeply influenced your work?

Music has always played a huge influence on anything artistic I do; from the clothes I wear to the art I make. Since a very young age, music has been one of my passions. In fact, one of my earliest childhood memories is of a no older than three-year-old me holding onto the record player unit in my parents' living room and dancing joyfully to the music my parents were playing. I grew up surrounded by music, and as a child, I would listen to the mix tapes that my sister's friends made for her, featuring bands like The Talking Heads, The Cure, and New Order. She was a teenager at the time, and I was barely 10 years old, but I found myself paying more attention to and appreciating those mix tapes more than she did.

When MTV entered my life in the early '90s, it opened a whole new world for me because now the music I loved had a visual element with the music videos. It was during this time that alternative music, like the Grunge scene, topped the music charts around the world. I became an obsessed teenager who spent most of my spare time watching music television, not only keeping up with the latest in alternative music in Brazil (where I’m originally from) and around the world but also observing the lifestyle, fashion, and behaviour of people my age in big cities. It was a stroke of luck to have access to all of this, even if just through the screen, for a teen growing up in a small town in the countryside. This exposure certainly shaped my taste in music and style. Reflecting on that time, I realise how fortunate I was to be part of that generation.

The alternative spirit I absorbed during those years still influences everything I do today. While alternative music has receded back to the underground where it once belonged, the internet now provides endless opportunities to discover new and old music beyond the mainstream. I consider myself one of those passionate about uncovering these hidden gems. House of Frisson wouldn't be the same if it weren't for the music I was exposed to during the formative years of my personality and taste. House of Frisson embodies the DIY aesthetic of punk and grunge, characterized by its raw, unexpected, and unconventional nature with a rebellious attitude.  The music accompanying my collage pieces in the images I share on social media is one of my key sources of inspiration. Space-age pop or bachelor pad music from the 1950s and '60s, with their eerie, mesmerizing sounds of mood music mixed with jungle melodies of Exotica, perfectly complements the mood of my work.

Additionally, contemporary acts inspired by this library and easy listening type of music, obsessed with early technology and outer space—such as Stereolab, Broadcast, Pram, Vanishing Twin, Kit Sebastian, The Soundcarriers, and Peel Dream Magazine—further influence my work.

The moody and whimsical atmosphere of my work, with touches of surrealism mixed with nostalgic and unpredictable elements, pairs beautifully with these eerie sounds that evoke an idealised, almost childlike vision of the future. There is a definite sense of naivety combined with a playful mix of novelty and nostalgia, reminiscent of an era when people dreamed of flying cars, jet packs, and utopian societies. These unusual and unexpected sources of inspiration have deeply influenced my art, shaping its unique character and resonating with those who appreciate its distinctiveness.

Is art created for the artist, the audience, or somewhere in between?

The question of whether art is created for the artist, the audience, or somewhere in between is intriguing and multifaceted. I believe it lies somewhere in between, unless you are truly an outsider artist at the core—a self-taught individual with little or no contact with the conventions of the art world, creating art purely for yourself with no intention of showing it to the public or commercialising it.

In reality, if you intend to share your art and commercialise it to make a living, you inevitably create with some consideration of how it will be received and impact your audience. The ideal scenario is creating art that is authentic to yourself while also resonating with others. Creating art solely to please others is a dangerous path, as the work may lack soul and an essential connection with the creator. Art devoid of personal meaning can feel empty and insincere. The true challenge and joy lie in finding that sweet spot where you create something you genuinely believe in and take pleasure in making, and that resonates with your audience—those who deeply appreciate your art.

Artistic creation is deeply personal and often stems from an artist's inner experiences, emotions, and perspectives. This personal aspect imbues the artwork with authenticity and individuality. When an artist pours their heart and soul into their work, it often results in pieces that speak to the core of human experience, evoking emotions and sparking connections. This authenticity is what draws viewers in and allows them to find meaning and relatability in the art.

However, the audience plays a crucial role in the art world. Artists thrive on feedback, engagement, and the dialogue that their work generates. The audience's interpretation and reception of art can enhance its meaning and impact. Art is a form of communication, and the interaction between the artist and the viewer is essential to this exchange. While creating art, artists often consider how their work will be perceived, aiming to evoke specific responses or provoke thought.

Moreover, creating art with an awareness of the audience does not mean compromising on authenticity. Instead, it involves striking a balance where the artist's vision aligns with the audience's sensibilities. This balance can lead to powerful and impactful works that resonate with an audience while staying true to the artist's intent. The connection between the artist and the viewer can be profound, as it creates a shared experience and understanding. Artists must navigate the delicate interplay between personal expression and audience engagement. When artists create solely for themselves, their work may remain undiscovered and unappreciated.

Conversely, when artists create only to please others, they risk losing their unique voice. The ideal lies in creating art that is deeply personal and meaningful, while also considering the audience's perspective and the potential impact on viewers. Art exists in the space between the artist and the audience. It is a dynamic and evolving process that involves personal expression and audience engagement. The most impactful art strikes a balance between these elements, creating works that are authentic to the artist and resonate with the audience. By finding this sweet spot, artists can create meaningful and powerful works that inspire, provoke, and connect.

Has social media democratized art or diluted its value? How do you feel platforms like Instagram influence modern creativity?

Social media has undeniably played a pivotal role in democratizing art, allowing anyone with an internet connection to create a profile and share their work and visions with a global audience. This shift has removed the gatekeeping power traditionally held by art galleries and public spaces, granting underprivileged and emerging artists the opportunity to showcase their talent without waiting for approval from established institutions. In this sense, social media platforms have provided invaluable spaces for artists of all backgrounds to connect with audiences and gain recognition. The barriers to entry have been significantly lowered, enabling a diverse range of voices and styles to flourish. This democratization has enriched the art world by bringing in fresh perspectives and fostering a more inclusive environment. However, while social media has undoubtedly given everyone the chance to share their art, it also wields significant influence over what is widely seen and promoted. Algorithms play a crucial role in determining the visibility and reach of an artist's work. Social media platforms use these algorithms to curate and prioritise content that appears in users' feeds, favouring posts that generate high engagement, such as likes, comments, and shares. As a result, art that aligns with popular trends or elicits strong reactions is more likely to receive visibility. This emphasis on engagement can create challenges for artists, as they may feel pressured to conform to algorithmic preferences and trends to increase their reach. In many cases, this compromises the artist's true intention and authenticity, leading to a homogenization of content. Artists might find themselves creating work that is more likely to go viral rather than staying true to their unique voice and vision. This raises important questions about the balance between artistic integrity and the desire for visibility.

The pressure to play the algorithm game can stifle creativity and innovation, as artists may prioritise what is popular over what is personally meaningful. The constant need to produce content that appeals to a broad audience can lead to burnout and a sense of disillusionment. It is crucial for artists to navigate this landscape thoughtfully, finding ways to maintain their authenticity while engaging with their audience. Social media platforms have the power to shape cultural and artistic trends through their algorithms and policies. Content that does not conform to platform guidelines or community standards may be censored or limited in reach. These further influences what is shown and can affect an artist's ability to freely express themselves. Despite these challenges, social media remains a powerful tool for artists. It provides a platform for direct interaction with audiences, fostering a sense of community and engagement. Artists can receive real-time feedback, connect with fans, and collaborate with other creatives. This direct line of communication can be invaluable for building a dedicated following and gaining insights into how their work resonates with viewers. In conclusion, social media has both democratized art and introduced new challenges for modern creativity. While it has provided accessible spaces for artists to share their work, it also holds significant power in determining what content gets widely seen and promoted. The algorithms and policies of these platforms influence the visibility and reach of art, shaping the way it is consumed and appreciated. Artists must navigate this complex landscape by balancing authenticity with algorithmic engagement, maintaining their unique voice while leveraging the opportunities that social media provides.

If you could communicate just one core message through your entire body of work, what would it be?

If I could communicate just one core message through my entire body of work, it would be "Be Yourself," no matter what. Despite other people's expectations, it's crucial to remain true to oneself. Life is indeed too short when you consider the vast timeline of human history, and it is essential to live fully and make the most of the brief time we have. Make a difference, leave your mark, follow your dreams, and embrace your individuality. As much as it might sound clichéd and something that has been repeated countless times, it is still important to remind ourselves that we are individuals with unique characteristics. Trying to fit everyone into the same mold is an attempt to suppress what makes us different. There is a universe within each of us, and our diversity is what enriches the human experience.

In today's world, it is disheartening to see that, even in the 21st century, we are witnessing regressive ideas emerging from governments around the globe. These forces attempt to dictate what we can be and what we cannot. After significant advancements in recent decades across various domains, from technology to social justice, it is unacceptable that politicians are targeting social causes such as the rights of minorities and the underprivileged. This regression threatens the progress we have made and undermines the principles of equality and freedom. Art has the power to challenge these backward notions and inspire change. Through my work, I strive to convey the importance of self-expression and individuality. Art serves as a medium to highlight the beauty of diversity and the strength that comes from embracing our differences. It is a reminder that we should not be confined by societal norms or expectations but should instead celebrate our unique identities. Being yourself means embracing your passions, talents, and quirks. It means standing up for what you believe in and not being afraid to voice your opinions, even if they go against the grain. It means pursuing your dreams with determination and not being discouraged by obstacles or criticism. By being true to ourselves, we inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect that can lead to positive change in society. The message of "Be Yourself" extends to all aspects of life. It encourages authenticity in our relationships, careers, and personal growth. In a world where social media often promotes curated and idealized versions of life, it is vital to remember that our true selves are valuable and worthy. Authenticity fosters genuine connections and a sense of belonging, as people appreciate and resonate with sincerity.

Through my art, I aim to create a space where people feel empowered to express their true selves. I want my work to serve as a source of inspiration and a catalyst for introspection. By celebrating individuality and encouraging authenticity, we can build a more inclusive and accepting society. "Be Yourself." Embrace your uniqueness, defy societal expectations, and live authentically. In doing so, we can leave a lasting impact on the world, championing the values of diversity, freedom, and self-expression.

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At its core, Rocha’s work is about disruption—disrupting aesthetic norms, questioning social expectations, and redefining the boundaries of contemporary art. Whether through collaged phrases that cut through politeness or the reimagining of forgotten objects, Rocha creates with an unfiltered authenticity that resonates beyond the frame. In a world of mass production and fleeting trends, Rocha’s art stands as a reminder to embrace individuality, reject complacency, and find meaning in the overlooked.

Hello everyone,

I just thought I should do a blog post about what House of Frisson has been up to in the last few months as I haven’t update here for a while now.

As well as preparing for the busiest time of the year with Christmas approaching, House of Frisson is taking part in the Haringey Feast, which is a project by Haringey Council and Mayor of London’s Borough of Culture Program.

Haringey Feast is bringing together Haringey’s creators, cultural organisations, and residents to celebrate everything creative that the borough has to offer. This is building up to a free celebration of Haringey’s creativity at Alexandra Palace on Sunday 19 November 2023. 

House of Frisson has been commissioned to create unique pieces, together with the local community, that will be used to serve bread and pastries on the tables at the coming up event on November 19th.

I have recently facilitated a collage workshop at Eade Studios where I presented my collage on ceramics technique to the local community and together we created collage designs on vessels, trays and bowls.

The ceramic objects, sourced from local charity shops, have been painted in bright colours and LGBTQ+ slogans/quotes have been applied to them, as well as colourful flowers to embellish the overall colourful designs. Food-safe sealer will then be applied to the surfaces to protect the collage designs.

My inspirations come from latest events in politics where some authorities have been neglecting and interfering with LGBTQ+ rights, trying to stop what has already been conquered and denying trans rights.

The designs will shout reaffirmation quotes of being who you truly are without fear of being supressed by prejudice. As a society we need to move forward in human rights and stop those who neglect our existence.

The workshop saw the local community coming together to express their views and to help bring awareness to minority causes.

If you would like to take part in the free Haringey Feast event at Ally Pally on Sunday 19th November, please book your free tickets at www.alexandrapalace.com. Tickets are going fast, book yours soon.

Hopefully I will see you there!

Update regarding Christmas: House of Frisson will be trading at Canopy Market in Kings Cross (N1C 4BZ) from 23rd of November to 23rd of December. Come and say hi and don’t forget to support independent makers this Christmas. Your support is so valuable and help us carrying on. 

I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comment section below...

Love&frisson,

Luciano Rocha x

Hi there,

Exciting news.

You, my favourite readers. Yes, you. I thought I would let you be the first ones to know that I’m working on some merchandise of my original artworks. Yep!

In the last few months, I have been thinking about expanding the business bringing some cool merchandise with my designs on it.

I did some research on art printing places in the UK to print some of my designs on A3 size prints, as well as on coasters, greeting cards, cushion covers, and more.

And I agree that these would be ideal for those who appreciate my art but are perhaps not ready to buy the originals. As well as for those who would like to spark their décor with some extra House of Frisson’s bits around the house, like unique coasters or cool cushions on the sofa.

Not to mention that they would be a great gift idea to treating who you love without breaking the bank. 😊

So, after finding the right printing shop I started designing digitally so that the designs are flat, rather than just photographing my existing art on 3D objects that would leave shadows.

To start with, I made four collage designs that will be printed on limited quantity items, such as A3 prints, coasters, greeting cards and cushion covers.

This will be a test. I would like to see how these go before ordering more or expanding to other merchandise items.

They won’t be ready and available up until beginning of September but in the meantime have a peep at what I’m talking about…

You are the first ones to see this!

Exciting, no?

What do you think? Let me know it in the comments below.

Thank you!

Lov&frisson,

Luciano Rocha x

Surprise-surprise!

Hello,

I know. It’s been a while since I last posted here. In the last few months, I have been spending time creating and uploading new artwork on my online shop as well as creating content for social media. And on top of that I have had quite a few events and am in the search for new places to exhibit my work in the coming months. I’ll try to update you from here at least once a month, hopefully.

Today I’m going to talk a bit about the ways in which House of Frisson contributes to minimising carbon footprint and waste materials in landfills.

By upcycling and repurposing pre-existing objects House of Frisson strives to reduce waste and prolong the life of materials that would otherwise end up in landfill.

We are all about giving a second life to those unappealing or unwanted objects that people usually discard, give away to charity shops or don’t know what to do with.

We love them! They are just like a blank canvas waiting for House of Frisson’s collage designs to spice them up.

Even when the objects are cracked or broken there is always a way to fix them so that they can also be upcycled into something new and exciting.

There’s already too much waste material out there polluting our natural environment. If we can minimise it everyone will certainly benefit.

I was once offered some broken plates by a friend who asked me if they could be of any use. I accepted them, not knowing what I could do, if they could be fixed and used in my artwork but I decided to challenge myself.

It was then that I came up with this technique of gluing together the broken pieces and then, to cover up the wounds, gluing small scraps of paper on the surface to form a colourful pattern on the back of the plate.

I do the same to cracked ceramic or glass vases, by filling in the cracks and then painting and applying collage to the surface to cover up the junctions.

These scraps of paper incorporated in the designs (on the front or back of the objects) are small cut outs from the main images used in the designs. They are those awkward pieces that are usually thrown in the bin. I now save them all! I have been using those on the back of the plates, even on those plates that were not broken, as a way of adding an extra touch to the artwork.

No such a thing as waste where there's creativity and conscious mind.

They don't look like they were broken to pieces, do they? :-) 

I'd love to hear from you in the comment area bellow.

Thank you.

Lov&frisson,

Luciano R. x

Hello!

I’m glad you’re here.

Today I’m going to talk a bit about the experience that made me go professional.

What does that mean?

Before taking part in the London Made Me project, I didn’t have a business, I had a hobby. I was already trading my artwork at online platforms, but I had no idea on how to price it, as well as many other aspects on the business side. It was only after taking part in the London Made Me intense one-week training and then trading onsite in Regent Street that I realised I had a business in hand that could take me somewhere.

London Made Me is a project created by the Mayor of London’s Creative Enterprise Zone Programme (CEZ), in partnership with Alice Mayor, Hypha Studios and The Crown State. Aiming to support, empower and inspire London’s creatives to transform the high street. The project was launched in October 2022, with a pop-up shop opening in early November, for four weeks.

Taking part in my local creative network event in summer 2022 inspired me to apply for London Made Me, after receiving an email about the pilot project by the organisers of the Harringay event. I didn’t have many expectations considering that I didn’t have a structured business, but I was lucky enough to be selected, together with 13 other artists/makers from across various London’s enterprise zones.

So, the journey began.

We had a 5-day training course at the British Library, with experts from the industry, to learn some aspects of the business, such as marketing, planning, customer experience, storytelling, promotion, events, administration, and logistics

After the training week, the 14 creatives were then invited to the empty shop on Regent Street to help designing or tweaking the stands according to individual needs. Following with painting the units, painting the walls, and then dressing the space/units to better accommodate the brand’s image.

With everything in place and looking beautiful, we were ready to open the shop. The launch day was a closed event with guests from the industry as well as all the people involved in the project. The following day the pop-up shop in the heart of London’s Regent Street was open for business.

During those four weeks trading at the Regent Street, I learned a lot about my brand and the business in general. And of course, I had so much fun with my fellow colleagues and chatted to many lovely people who came to the shop.

We also had some fun activities happening in store to engage with the community, such as workshops, live demonstrations, live music, art performances and evening parties.

Selling my artwork and having positive feedback by so many people who I had never met before felt great and it definitely made me realise that what I do is relevant, and I should keep up the good work.

Ah, not to mention that I had the privilege to talk about my work to the Mayor of London's Sadiq Khan.

It was indeed a brilliant experience!

Thanks for coming.

Love and frisson,

Luciano R.

Hi there, lovely to have you here.

All my artwork is one-off. That’s one of the beauties of handmade, producing something that is special and unique, portraying that single idea at that specific moment.

When it comes to the process of making a new collage artwork on a pre-existing object, the shape of the object influences the final look.

Most times it starts with a specific image that I have in mind or sometimes a phrase that I’d love to portray on a plate, or vase. If that’s the case, then I source for online images that would better illustrate the words.

From there, it’s time to get creative, putting images together in a designing software to decide on composition, size of the images, textures, texts, and so on, before printing them.

After the images are printed it’s time to get the scissors and carefully cut them very precisely.

At this stage I already have painted the plate or vase in a colour, or colours, that I wish the background to be. I hardly ever leave the object in its original colour. Most times they come with designs or patterns that don’t relate to my designs.

So, with all the images already cut, I blue tack them in place just to make sure I’m happy with the composition. When it all looks good, then I start gluing the images.

The decoration is the next step. I use acrylic pens to make details on the background, sometimes these details give impression of a textured background. They help creating the mood of the design.

After that, it’s time to spray varnish the artwork and the whole object to avoid any ink bleeding when applying the liquid varnish.

With that dry, it’s time to apply the water based varnish. Usually, I do two coats of it, allowing it to dry between coats.

Next, it is the solvent-based varnish. It is a more hardwearing varnish compared to the other two used in the previous steps. I prefer to use it just to make sure the design is thoroughly protected from damage caused by scratches, humidity, yellowing with time or even occasional water splashes.

This requires around three or four coats to reach a good finish, lightly sanding between coats.

That’s it. Once it’s all dry it’s time to clean the excess of varnish on the back of the plate and then attach the wire hanger, if it’s a plate.

As you can see it’s quite a lengthy process with different steps until the desired finish is reached. I’d say each artwork takes me three or four days to conclude, because of the drying period.

I find it all very enjoyable, each of the steps, and I get a kick out of seeing the finished artwork. I should really photograph the before and after so I can compare them, but most of the times I forget to do so and go straight into the transformation. 😊

I’d love to hear from you. Please, leave a comment bellow. Thanks for coming and see you next time.

Love & frisson,

Luciano R.

Hi there,

I'm glad you are here. Thanks for coming!

Ok, let's talk about the sources of inspiration behind all of this...

The inspirations for my designs come from a miscellany of things that I like.

I have always been very fond of subcultures and underground scenes. The music played and still plays a big part of who I am, the way I dress and the art that I do. The 1970’s Punk DIY aesthetic sense is somehow in my genes.

As a teenager in the early 90’s, having access to the MTV channel was one of the best things that could happen to a country kid, who was already fascinated with pop culture but had no access to anything other than a few vinyl records, some mix tapes and occasionally a music magazine.

Easy to spot the influence of the good old MTV promo spots on House of Frisson’s short videos for social media, with overlays and glitchy fast moving images, resembling the distortions on old VHS. Just like it was back then.

Talking about music, have you noticed the cool background sounds on House of Frisson’s videos? It is mostly space-age exotica lounge music from the 1950’s and 1960’s, and some contemporary sounds which drew influence from those styles. I just think they are the perfect soundtracks to portray the mood of my work.

https://m.mixcloud.com/beatsville/beatsville-presents-space-age-exotica/

Another source of inspiration is cinema. I love watching independent movies! I love digging around and finding treasures, either from now or the past. Horror movies are also on the top of my list. Can’t beat that spooky eerie atmosphere and the frisson chills that come with it. That’s where the creepy looking dolls in my artwork come from.

Thinking closely, I’m attracted to many sorts of oddities and curiosities. One can’t deny that there’s some level of beauty in the strange, unusual, and bizarre, otherwise these wouldn’t be portrayed in so many art forms for so long now. It’s not only about trying to shock the viewer, but there’s more to it.

I’m also very enthusiastic about the mind of artists, and the free-spirited people. I certainly draw many influences from the artists that I admire, not only from their art but also the way of thinking and carrying themselves. Frida Kahlo, Andy Warhol, John Waters & Divine, Quentin Crisp, Gilbert & George, David Bowie, just to name a few.

I’m drawn to vibrant colours and high contrasts. Minimalism is definitely out of my context! Since a very young age I loved the colour yellow, but the golden/orangey shade that is closer to mustard than to lemon. Just like the yellow shade that I chose for House of Frisson logo.

 Vibrant coloured flowers and roses are usually seen in my artwork, together with tropical vegetation and exotic bugs. I think of them as the perfect complement to create an exuberant, quirky, and strange world which is House of Frisson.

 I would love to hear from you. Please say hello in the comment area below. Thank you!

Luciano R.

Where did the name and logo come from?

That is an interesting one. I must say that I didn’t spend much time choosing from a list of a dozen options eliminating one by one like most people do.

Before I realised that I had a creative business in hand I had no brand name, no logo and wasn’t even thinking about them until I had to decided everything in one day, the day before facing potential customers with my art for the first time in person.

This was the one-day event for creatives in my area, Harringay. I applied online to take part in it with a stall showcasing my art. I did have plenty of plates and vases ready to take with me, but what was missing was a name and a logo to represent them.

By that time, I was already producing regularly but only selling online, on platforms like Depop and eBay. And as I still didn’t have a brand name and logo, the back of my plates had an extra artwork that I made with the intention of covering up the lack of those so important elements that would give my art a face. I was using the back of the plates to leave impactful short messages like slogans, mixed with a few collage images to complement the text. If you come across any of my early plates, you’ll see this extra touch on the back.

So… I had to choose a name and logo in the afternoon before the event.

“Frisson” is a name which I already had thought about for a business a long time ago. Back then, a friend of mine (Paula) and I were thinking of starting a t-shirt brand with my designs and in one of our brainstorming moments I suggested “Frisson”, because it sounded good, and it also had the same pronunciation and meaning in both languages, English and in our native Portuguese. And of course, in French, where it is originally from.

The t-shirt business idea didn’t flourish as we were both dealing with other primary commitments, but the name stuck in my head, and as soon as I saw myself having to decide on a name for my collage business “Frisson” flashed across through my mind again. At this time, I thought it was missing something to accomplish and to represent even better the art that I was making now.

Frisson (also spelled “friçon“. From Latin frio“), comes from the late 18th century and it is a French word meaning a sudden strong feeling of excitement or fear; a thrill; a shiver. A frisson of surprise. A frisson of delight.              Ref. https://etymologeek.com/eng/frisson

It is basically a word to describe a sudden thrill or a fright that can be strangely pleasurable, just like that feeling when reading or watching a good horror fiction.

“House of Frisson” as a brand name sounded coherent with the mood of my artwork, which is quite often spooky with some frighting looking vintage doll faces among flowers and bugs.

How did I come up with the logo?

I trusted my instinct.

It was a quick decision as I didn’t have much time to think about it, and it is still the same design since I made it. I’m happy how it came up and how visually appealing and representative of my work it is.

I think about a fly as a fast mover, that can get away quite easily from being caught up. A fly can disturb one’s peace and be very annoying when entering the house in a summer day when doors are open, buzzing around your head making noise. In fact, most people are disgusted when seeing flies but as disgusting as it can be they serve as important environmental pollinators, decomposers and are also part of the food chain.

What is the relation to my work?

Well, it is perhaps the intention of taking one’s from one’s comfort zone, with messages (visual or written) in the artwork that sometimes one thinks about but most often doesn’t say.

House of Frisson is the fly that the lizard tries to catch and eat but often fails.

But, who’s the lizard?

Open to interpretations! 😊

Regarding the blue rose in the logo…

Roses are a universal way to express feelings and hidden thoughts. A blue rose, in Chinese folklore, means attaining the impossible.

Blue roses don’t grow naturally, they are genetically modified and it is hard to achieve a true-blue shade because of the lack of some natural pigments that form the colour blue. For this reason, there is an enchanting mysticism around this eye-catching colour rose, that are related to the imagination, dreams, desire, and lust.

When it comes to the yellow colour in the logo, yellow is a symbol of happiness and positivity. It inspires hope and enthusiasm as well as new ways of thinking and acting. Optimism, confidence, and cheerfulness are often said to be related to the colour yellow.

I often think of House of Frisson being like a twisted fairyland, which can sometimes look cute with the colourful flowers in the artwork, but on close inspection it can be thought provoking, creepy and quite provocative, which often causes surprise to viewers.

I would love to hear from you! Please leave a message in the comment area below.

Love and frisson,

Luciano R.

Hello,

I thought this would be the best topic to kick off this blog and to share with you lovely people some facts on how this beautiful (and yet recent) journey began. 

Some of you may already know a bit about my background, but for those who have just landed on this odd little world of House of Frisson here you will find a glimpse on how it all started.

My name is Luciano Rocha. I'm a Brazilian guy who chose London to call home. Not long after graduating in architecture I felt the need to change scenery and explore the world outside my country. I was certain that I would fall in love with London once here, and it did happen straightaway.

Why? Because I'm a creative person by nature and I love the buzz of being in a city where there's so much to be inspired by, inspirations coming from everywhere and anywhere. London is the place where the things that interest me the most happen first, before going to other capitals. 

Once in London, I started doing short courses in various creative subjects, such as life drawing, illustration, screen printing, fashion designing, styling, and most recently a level 2 BTEC in fashion.

So, how did House of Frisson start, Luciano?

I was automatically just about to type in that it was purely by chance. But thinking closely, was it really?

I guess I had accumulated so much creative knowledge and life experience from living in such a cosmopolitan and cultural city and travelling to many parts of the world that it would happen one day. Somehow. I just wasn't sure what!

And it was when everything had to stop completely, and there was nowhere to go, and absolutely nothing to distract me, that some deep emotions connected with lost memories took over me. This was during the first lock down in 2020. It was then that I felt mentally and emotionally drained and bored with my professional life so far.

In that summer, I came across a decoupage book at home among a hundred of other books scattered around the house. An idea flashed out just there whilst I was flicking through the pages. I thought it would be a good makeover technique to apply on a lamp table that was displeasing me due to the colour clashing with other furniture in my living room. So, I decided to stain varnish the wood top and then make a collage artwork on it.

That was it! The embryo of House of Frisson was about to be born.

After this enjoyable and successful first attempt with the table, I started looking at other surfaces I could apply collage on. Even discarded ceramic plates didn't escape from my experimentation.

It was actually there that my imagination sparkled brighter. When realising that a discarded plate could work as a blank canvas to accommodate my collage designs, and then be displayed on the wall. I would consequently be prolonging the life of an object that would most likely end in landfill. It sounded good. So, when businesses resumed after the first lock down, I started taking regular trips to my local charity shops to source for interestingly shaped plates. 

After receiving some positive feedback from family and friends I thought I should try selling some of my creations online.

But I kept the first ones I made and they are still displayed on my wall to this day.

The response from online was very good. Better than I expected. And so I kept making more and more plates and slowly improving my collage technique and finding my own signature. I was also building up confidence to take the next step, which was having my artwork in front of customers, face-to-face.

This happened on summer 2022 when I was selected to take part in my local one day creative network event in Harringay, with a stall showcasing my art, among other creators. 

By this point I wasn't still quite sure where I could go with this. But I certainly enjoyed making my art so much so that I felt like I needed to carry on. I needed to test it to a wider audience on the high street to reassure myself that what I was doing was relevant and people were interested in it.

I decided to apply to the London Made Me project by the Mayor of London, for a chance to take part in their pilot project together with other 13 artists, selling their creations on west end.

 But this is a topic for a coming up post...

Stay tuned! 

I would love to hear from you. Please say hello in the comment area below. Thank you!

Much love and frisson,

Luciano R.