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, 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 bears marks, drips and imperfections that testify to the weight of time and experience. The work suggests that maintaining hope does not mean ignoring difficulties, but choosing to keep going 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 requires 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 viewpoint, causing the sculpture to be in constant transformation before the observer's eyes.

The smiling expression contrasts with the fissures 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 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 a finish of almost jewelry-like character, bringing urban art closer to the universe of luxury and collectible objects. 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 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. Throughout his career, he has developed a unique style that blends graffiti, contemporary art, illustration and graphic design. He presents his works in public and private contexts, with the aim of provoking reflection and inspiring. Today he continues to explore new figurative approaches and to deepen the impact of his art on the spaces around him.