Following the success of its first edition in 2024, Aveiro once again played host to a celebration of art and local business with the second edition of the project “RIA: Ruas de Intervenção Artística” (Artistic Street Interventions). Organised by Agora Aveiro, last Saturday’s event aimed once again to shine a light on both local and national artists while also promoting independent businesses through artistic interventions – from music and tapestry to illustration – in unexpected and unconventional spaces.

This project was born out of a concerning reality: local artists and traditional shops are increasingly struggling to gain the recognition they deserve. International chains have gradually replaced traditional businesses, leading to a significant loss of cities’ cultural identities. At the same time, many national artists face a lack of exposure, recognition, and appreciation for their work. With “RIA”, Agora Aveiro set out to remind us that art can (and should) be part of everyday life and that cities truly come alive when we invest in culture and local commerce.

Throughout the afternoon, the city centre was transformed by musical performances, tapestry, drawing, painting, and other artistic expressions, all hosted within 10 local businesses, each welcoming different artists. The community was invited to explore these shops, discover their products, while enjoying the talent of the featured artists. This year, visitors could also collect a sticker at each location in a special “sticker booklet”, encouraging them to explore the city’s streets, discover local businesses, and engage with Aveiro’s artistic talent.

Artistic diversity was undoubtedly one of the highlights of this edition. The talented illustrators Joana Braga and Elsa Mendes turned Alma de Alecrim and Raiz - O Vegetariano do Bairro, respectively, into pop-up galleries. The intricate illustrations of Rita Ricardo brought new life to the esoteric shop Brenzo, while Gabriela Lário’s embroidery added vibrant colour to PokeBox. StayFunk’s graffiti art revitalised a forgotten wall of the bakery Trigamilha Mãe. Inside the Italian bistro YEAH! Aveiro, musician Hélder Brandão Antunes filled the space with the mesmerising sounds of his piano. Biologist Renato Nakazone’s scientific illustrations turned Tough Love Taproom into a cosmic journey, while the handmade crochet creations of Arrematalinha added a soft, playful touch to Choice Boutique. The local band SIGRA brought joy and energy to Jardim do Alboi and its surroundings, and last but not least, SQE Rugs infused The Iron Duke pub with cultural identity through their handcrafted tapestries.

This year’s, “RIA” was more than just an artistic event. It was also an invitation to connect and come together. The day concluded at Jardim do Alboi with a cultural community gathering, bringing together artists, shopkeepers, and members of the Aveiro community in a celebration of belonging and appreciation for home-grown talent. Bifanas, cakes, caldo verde, fresh juices and beer were all on offer, accompanied by great music! This relaxed and joyful get-together also served as a networking moment, where participating artists could meet and explore opportunities for future collaborations. It further strengthened ties between artists, shop owners, and the wider Aveiro community, creating a space for the sharing of experiences, stories, and ideas, encouraging neighbourhood pride and intercultural exchange.

This edition of “Ruas de Intervenção Artística” reaffirmed the importance of giving visibility to local talent while providing a unique, inclusive cultural experience. We believe it is in the streets, in direct contact with people and everyday spaces, that art gains new meaning!

We would like to publicly thank all the artists, shopkeepers, and participants who were part of this year’s edition. We remain committed to building bridges between art and community, because culture isn’t just made on stages – it’s also made in the streets. We also thank the Municipality of Estarreja and the Academic Association of the University of Aveiro, who made this event not only possible but truly special!

“Ruas de Intervenção Artística” is part of Agora Aveiro’s “Oficina da Criatividade” project. It counts with Academic Association of the University of Aveiro and Bairro Vivo as “Silver Partners”. It is carried out in partnership with Alma de Alecrim, YEAH! Aveiro, Tough Love Taproom, Choice Boutique, Brenzo, Maldita Brewpub, Trigamilha Mãe, PokeBox, The Iron Duke and Raiz - O Vegetariano do Bairro. It also has the support of the Municipality of Aveiro and IPDJ – Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth I.P..