Hiones (XX-XXI) - Holding On

Collector's Item.
100% hand-painted on PLA.
Artwork shipped in a cardboard box via DHL Express.
Accompanied by a COA, certificate of authenticity 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 testify to the weight of time and experience. The work suggests that holding onto hope does not mean ignoring difficulties, but choosing to go on despite them.

Manually clad with over 4,000 crystals, the sculpture establishes a dialogue between delicacy and resilience. Each crystal is applied individually, in a meticulous process that demands precision, patience and time, turning a repetitive gesture into an essential part of the work's own narrative. The resulting sparkle shifts with light and perspective, making the sculpture in a constant transformation to the observer's eye.

The smiling expression contrasts with the cracks and sculptural details that seem to defy 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 seems to crumble. The smile ceases to be merely a pop icon and becomes a symbol of perseverance.

In this work, Hione crosses the language of popular culture with an almost jewelry-like finish, bringing urban art closer to the worlds of luxury and collectible objects. Holding On celebrates the beauty of persistence and reminds us that, often, the greatest strength is found in the seemingly most fragile structures.

About Hione

Hione is a visual artist from Porto who, since 2013, has used 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. Over the course of his career, he developed a unique style that fuses graffiti, contemporary art, illustration and graphic design. He presents his works in public and private contexts, with the aim of provoking reflection and inspiration. Today he continues to explore new figurative approaches and to deepen the impact of his art in the space around him.