Rita Salgado

Background

About Rita Salgado

My name is Rita, and I’m a multidisciplinary creative from Porto, Portugal, currently living in Barcelona for the past four years. I’m a graphic and communication designer, as well as a photographer and illustrator. Creativity has always been part of my life—I grew up in a creative environment, and I naturally gravitate toward projects that allow for artistic expression. I thrive on learning new things and working across different disciplines, always seeking new ways to bring ideas to life. I used to have my own clothing brand with hand-screen-printed designs, but I had to close it due to COVID. That moment of change led me to reinvent myself, and I decided to move to Barcelona to pursue a master’s degree in fashion and advertising photography. This experience deepened my passion for visual storytelling and expanded my creative horizons. Over the years, I have worked as a designer, photographer, in a print shop, and even in areas outside the creative field, like hotels, shops and even as a dental assistant (during the COVID pandemic). Work has never scared me, and learning comes naturally to me—I adapt, evolve, and embrace every new challenge. Traveling is one of my greatest passions, and over time, I learned to travel alone and truly enjoy my own company. My first big solo trip was to Vietnam, where I discovered the joy of being with myself, making my own plans, and embracing the freedom that comes with it. Since then, I’ve continued to explore new places on my own, and solo experiences—whether traveling, going to the cinema, or visiting exhibitions—have become a priority in my life. Manual crafts are also a big part of me, and I love working with my hands to create something unique. I sell my illustrations in different stores and platforms as well as my photos and some designs. The sea and the plants are another huge source of inspiration, constantly fueling my creativity. Writing is also an essential part of me—I love translating thoughts and experiences into words. Beyond my work, I’m an active member of different women’s collectives and frequently attend events on design, entrepreneurship, and initiatives that amplify the voices of female creatives and entrepreneurs. For me, life is about discovering, creating, and growing, and I embrace every opportunity to do just that.