Tony Amaral

Tony Amaral, born in 1984 in Timor-Leste, grew up developing a passion for the arts and activism through painting banners for pro-independence demonstrations. In 2002, he co-founded Arte Moris Free Art School, with Timorese contemporaries and Swiss artist Luca Gansser, creating a pivotal platform for Timorese artists. His artistic practice grew through national and international exhibitions in Australia, Indonesia, and Switzerland. During Timor-Leste’s 2006 civil unrest, his art played a socially engaged role, contributing to peace campaigns through community posters and murals. Tony remains a leading figure in Timor-Leste’s contemporary art scene, inspiring new generations of artists and making a lasting impact on both local and international art communities.