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

Mariana Santos, better known as “Mariana, a Miserável” (the miserable one), is a non-award winning illustrator whose work explores the complexities of human experience with remarkable sensitivity and humor. Her artistic journey began in Lírio, Portugal, where she nurtured a fascination for detail and natural forms—influences that would profoundly shape her distinctive visual language.

Early Life & Artistic Beginnings

Born in 1986, Mariana Santos harbored dreams beyond the ordinary – envisioning herself as a florist, cultivating beauty from humble origins. This early passion for meticulous observation instilled within her a deep appreciation for storytelling and a desire to capture fleeting emotions with precision. She pursued Graphic Design at Escola Superior de Artes e Design (ESAD) in Caldas da Rainha, honing her technical skills while developing a foundational understanding of design principles. Subsequently, she embarked on postgraduate studies at Faculdade de Bellas Artes da Universidade do Porto (FBAUP), delving deeper into artistic theory and expanding her creative horizons. Despite choosing to pursue a career path that seemed deliberately unattractive to mainstream employment—a conscious decision to dedicate herself fully to illustration—she remained steadfast in her passion for visual storytelling.

Exploring Themes of Reality & Emotion

Mariana’s artwork consistently tackles profound themes – expectations versus reality, the bittersweet beauty of everyday life, and those moments where vulnerability shines through. Her 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 Exhibitions & Collaborations

Mariana Santos has participated in numerous exhibitions – both solo and collaborative – across Portugal and internationally, showcasing her versatility as an illustrator. Her work spans various mediums, from canvas paintings to mural designs, fashion accessories to digital content, demonstrating a commitment to exploring innovative approaches to visual storytelling. She’s been commissioned by 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.