Specialising in illusion and abstract visuals, Portuguese artist and designer Eduardo Nery’s (1938 – 2013) artworks make the most of many mediums including paint, collage, and photography. But we’re here today to talk about the times he used tiles.

Using the structure, shade, and any motifs on the tiles’ surface, Nery formed large scale Op Art designs that make the most of simple abstract colour displays striking panels that play with tone and texture, mixing modern monochrome creations with original hand painted earthenware.

Creating a space to reimagine and recast traditional Portuguese tiles, some of his more subversive displays upend expected narratives with a flair for whimsy and desire to delight.

Murals interspersed with colourful checks, body-swapping, and seeing triple, Nery’s fabulous public works are one fine way to tile the world.

A new post by Hanna Simpson, Diary of a Tile Addict, June 2024.