For 13 years, she defines herself mainly as an "artisan designer", sorting, shaping, cutting, sometimes even "drilling, cutting, hollowing and punching" feathers. In her studio-workshop located on Saint-Gilles street, her ideas come to life to transform into wonderful creations worthy of the greatest works of art. In the midst of these bright pieces with high ceilings, dozens of samples and prototypes are arranged here and there. On the wall, photos of her creations for Guerlain and John Galliano catch the eye. What was her favorite project? "It's hard to choose, there are many that I am proud of. There is this headdress that I made for a Brazilian icon, she wore it during the carnival in 2019, I was very moved," she confides.Voir cette publication sur Instagram
©Janaïna Milheiro
A non-traditional featherworker
Developing and exploiting her own ideas, these are the watchwords of the creator. In Janaïna's life, no day, not even a year, is the same. While she works alongside the biggest couture brands - Guerlain, Valentino, Dior, John Galliano - she also lets her creativity shine through in sculptures, objects, paintings, or window displays. And each time the process is the same: her inventions serve as the starting point for any form of collaboration. “Then, brands can ask me to adapt them or develop new ones for them”, she explains. An unusual way of working, in opposition to traditional artistic professions.
©Janaïna Milheiro
In the enchanting world of traditional feather work, which constitutes "15 to 20% of her techniques," the designer infuses a touch of modernity and innovation into her art. With feathers sourced ethically from turkeys, geese, ducks, peacocks, and ostriches that are part of the food industry, and adhering to the guidelines of the Washington Convention, she skillfully experiments and develops her own unique expertise. Her artistic approach to feathers involves blending this exquisite material with a variety of textiles and subtle details. Lace serves as her primary muse, allowing Janaïna to master different assembly techniques that create a "soft surface" effect. Her creations strike a harmonious balance between structural integrity and ornamental beauty.
Craftsmanship Like No Other
Throughout her illustrious career, Janaïna has perfected a form of craftsmanship so distinctively hers that anyone joining her team must undergo specialized training in her techniques. As a passionate entrepreneur, she juggles multiple roles to bring her extraordinary projects to fruition. In addition to her skill in drawing and creating...
Not only does she design mesmerizing pieces, but she also takes care of the business side of her brand, making sure every detail is perfect and leaving a legacy that goes beyond words.
Aside from her design skills, she also manages training, supervising staff, communication, management, and human resources. "My challenge lies in finding clients as I create modern designs using unique materials and high-end concepts," she admits.
©Janaïna Milheiro
To expand her practice, she collaborates with other artisans and combines the work of feathers with glass or metal, for example. In France, only one school offers training in feather artistry and there are less than ten feather artists, according to Janaïna, but she believes the profession is not declining, but rather growing. " I see many people starting their own businesses and working with this material. I think there is a growing interest ", she notes. Through her success and journey, supported by the city of Paris and marked by several grants and awards, she shows a whole generation the importance and beauty of this craft. Keep an eye out when you spot feathers at a fashion show or in a store window, the artist's overflowing creativity has no end in sight.To showcase its feathers in Paris and around the world!
Atelier Janaïna Milheiro
3, rue Saint-Gilles - 3rd
Studio accessible by appointment
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