Turning Algarve shorelines into Art

This simple phrase perfectly reflects the spirit of Fanette Ligthart and her creative project, Beach and Pieces. Inspired by nature and a deep love for the ocean, Fanette turns treasures washed up on the shore into unique handmade artworks, each created with care, creativity and respect for the sea.

Her artistic journey began during the COVID pandemic. Long beach walks and shell collecting slowly became more than just a way to pass the time. “I happened to have too many beautiful items at home with no purpose,” she explains.

Before dedicating herself to art, Fanette followed many different paths. Alongside being a mother, she ran her own real estate business, worked for a bike rental company and managed detox retreats for groups visiting from abroad. Today, however, the sea has become both her inspiration and her workspace.

Using shells, sea urchins and sea glass, Fanette creates decorative pieces that reflect the beauty of the Algarve coastline. But Beach and Pieces is more than just crafting. For her, it is also a lifestyle built around nature, mindfulness and sustainability.

“Fresh air and long walks are good for the mind,” she says. “Finding materials on the beach depends completely on the tides, on the ebb and flow. Every time I find something, I get that happy feeling.”

Respect for nature is central to everything she does. Fanette avoids plastic and toxic products whenever possible and often leaves the beach cleaner than she found it by collecting rubbish during her walks. She is careful never to disturb marine life.

“I don’t take anything alive,” she says. “Don’t take nature for granted, treasure it, so our grandchildren and great-grandchildren can still enjoy it too.”

Originally settling near Lisbon, Fanette has lived in Portugal for more than 37 years, including the last three decades in Loulé, the Algarve. She says the region’s coastline continues to inspire her every day.

“I think we are really privileged with the fantastic beaches here. The sea makes my mind fresh, relaxed and inspired.”

Among her favourite places are the islands of Ria Formosa and the beaches near Lagoa, known for their dramatic rock formations.

I discovered Fanette’s work at the monthly Artists & Fleas market in Olhão and was immediately mesmerised by her creations. As someone who loves the beach and coastal-inspired décor, I could not resist bringing several pieces home. I now use some of her beautifully painted seashells to store jewellery and small keepsakes.

Fanette regularly participates in markets across the Algarve, including Tavira, Vale do Lobo, FAVA Loulé, and Quinta do Lago. As schedules vary, people can follow her on Instagram at @BeachandPieces to find out where she will appear next.

Her customers come from all over the world, especially the UK, Scandinavia, Ireland, the Netherlands and Germany. No matter where they are from, Fanette hopes her creations bring others the same joy she feels while making them.