The exhibition “Afinidades na Cerâmica Contemporânea” presents a total of 39 author pieces inspired by the painting Still Life (1645), by Pieter Claesz, part of the collection of the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis (MNSR).

This exhibition is part of the second edition of the Afinidades programme, an initiative developed by the MNSR in partnership with the Quarteirão Criativo Association, with the support of main sponsor Super Bock Group and the Círculo Dr. José de Figueiredo – Friends of the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis.

Curated by Vítor Reis, the 2025 edition offers a contemporary perspective on ceramics. Nearly forty pieces were selected for exhibition, created by artists represented by shops and galleries based in the Bombarda Quarter.

The creative proposals submitted to the Afinidades open call are now on view at the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis until 29 November, when the winner of the edition will be announced.

Recently awarded an Honourable Mention in the “Partnership” category by the Portuguese Museology Association, the Afinidades programme seeks to activate the local community by bringing it closer to the museum’s identity and daily life, while also fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and enabling the innovation of artistic discourses emerging from the Porto creative quarter.

This is a five-edition cycle with annual themes, comprising exhibitions, workshops, and public talks that explore moments of connection, empathy, and resemblance between the culture of the Bombarda creative community and the history and collection of the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis.