Hiones (XX-XXI) - Holding On

Collector's Item.
100% hand-painted on PLA.
Artwork shipped in a cardboard box via DHL Express.
Accompanied by COA, an authenticity certificate signed by the artist.

In Holding On, Hione transforms one of the most universal symbols of happiness into a reflection on resilience, fragility and permanence. The smile remains intact, but its surface reveals marks, drips and imperfections that attest to the weight of time and experience. The work suggests that keeping hope does not mean ignoring difficulties, but choosing to carry on despite them.

Manually encrusted with over 4,000 crystals, the sculpture establishes a dialogue between delicacy and resilience. Each crystal is applied individually, in a meticulous process that requires precision, patience and time, turning a repetitive gesture into an essential part of the artwork’s own narrative. The resulting sparkle shifts with light and viewpoint, making the sculpture constantly transform in the observer’s eyes.

The smiling expression contrasts with the cracks and sculptural details that seem to challenge its integrity. It is precisely in this tension that the meaning of Holding On resides: the ability to preserve identity, joy and hope even when everything around us appears to crumble. The smile ceases to be merely a pop icon and becomes a symbol of perseverance.

In this work, Hione crosses popular culture language with a nearly jewelry-like finish, bringing urban art closer to the luxury world and the collectible object. Holding On celebrates the beauty of persistence and reminds us that, often, it is in the seemingly most fragile structures that we find the greatest strength.

About Hione

Hione is a plastic artist from Porto who, since 2013, uses graffiti as his main form of expression. With a visual language marked by vibrant colors and defined shapes, his work reflects a strong connection to urban culture. Throughout his career, he has developed a unique style that fuses graffiti, contemporary art, illustration and graphic design. He presents his works in public and private contexts, aiming to provoke reflection and inspire. Today he continues to explore new figurative approaches and to deepen the impact of his art in the space around him.