About

Yulia Soldatkina - creator of Porto Insight

Originally from Russia, I’ve been living in Portugal for 17 years, making Porto my third country of residence. My passion for cultures and sharing experiences led me to work as a tourist guide and interpreter, where I discovered that Portugal’s real treasures lie beyond the usual routes.

Inspired by this, I created a selection of authentic, hands-on experiences in Porto. By organizing private workshops, I ensure a warm, personal atmosphere—perfect for families, friends, or colleagues to create lasting memories.

A key part of these experiences is collaborating with local artists. Crafting something with your own hands is deeply rewarding, offering both a sense of pride and a meaningful souvenir. More than just skills, these artisans share traditions and values that I’m proud to support—together with you. 

Cristina Camargo - visual artist, ceramist from Porto
Cristina Camargo - visual artist, art educator

I was Lisbon and have followed a rich and diverse path in the arts, with a background in Architecture, Fine Arts, and Industrial Design. For more then 30 years, I have worked as an art educator, developing creative and educational projects in collaboration with schools, museums, and institutions such as the Serralves Museum, the Douro Museum, Portugal dos Pequenitos (Coimbra), the F.C. Porto Museum, city councils, and the Magalhães Lemos Hospital.

I founded BOA – Bombarda Oficina de Artes, where I coordinate workshops designed to spark creativity in both children and adults. For me, creativity is a bridge between thought and action, and each workshop is an opportunity to discover new forms of expression.

I’m passionate about cats and dogs, and they are a big part of my life. Although I may not always have the chance to travel the world, I feel that the world comes to me through the people who attend my workshops. I love discovering new cultures and perspectives by connecting with them.

João Cunha e Costa- potter and sculptor from Porto
João Costa - potter, sculptor

I was born in Coimbra, Portugal, and have dedicated my life to ceramics. With a deep passion for the craft, I have worked in the field for many years and have been teaching ceramics for the last 30 years, sharing my knowledge with people of all ages and backgrounds. I hold a degree in Design from ESAD and a Master’s in Sculpture from FBAUP.

Over the years, I have participated in numerous exhibitions and artistic biennials. My work in community art projects has been especially meaningful, with wood-fired kilns becoming a signature element of my artistic approach.

 

Beyond ceramics, my interests are broad and eclectic. I love cinema, theater, music, art, and literature. I enjoy dancing, swimming, hiking, and spending time by the sea or in the mountains—sometimes even climbing trees to pick fruit. Passionate about history, geography, and travel, I also value good food, good company, and the simple joys of celebrating life.

Tania von Gal is a floral artist from Porto
Tânia von Gal - floral artist

I come from São Paulo, Brazil, but I found the perfect place to call home in Portugal. Trained as an architect, my profession taught me to work with space, form, and color. When I turned to floral arts, I encountered the same elements but with a completely different approach—one that engages the senses in a unique way.

Passionate about nature, I find inspiration in Portugal’s landscapes, from forests and countryside to its stunning beaches. I love hiking, cycling, and long walks by the sea, often collecting plants and natural elements along the way to incorporate into my artistic creations. One of the most meaningful experiences of my life was walking the Camino de Santiago, a journey that took me across Portugal, Spain, and France.

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