In a major exhibition at the Royal Academy, Brazil’s modernist art movement takes center stage once again. The exhibition titled “Brasil! Brasil! The Birth of Modernism” explores the period between 1910 and 1970 and features the works of 10 Brazilian artists. This exhibition aims to shed light on lesser-known artists from Brazil and raise awareness about their contributions to modernism.
Throughout this 60-year period, Brazil experienced a blossoming of the arts, with artists exploring new techniques and color palettes. The shift away from traditional art forms was an attempt to establish a new identity for the young republic, one that represented the diversity and culture of Brazil. Artists began to embrace the country’s vegetation, architecture, and faces, showcasing what it truly meant to be Brazilian.
The exhibition highlights various themes and subjects that were of importance to these modernist artists. Lasar Segall, a Jewish Lithuanian immigrant, depicted themes of oppression and displacement in Brazil through his paintings. Condido Portinari showcased the harsh lives of farmers from Brazil’s hinterlands, while Vicente do Rego Monteiro incorporated Indigenous cultural expressions into his works. Flávio de Carvalho experimented with multiple artistic movements, synthesizing European avant-garde styles from a Brazilian perspective.
One significant aspect of this exhibition is the inclusion of self-taught artists like Djanira da Motta e Silva. Their works challenge the preconceived notions of primitive or popular art and demonstrate their substantial artistic talent. These artists were not mere observers but members of the cultures they depicted, adding authenticity and depth to their works.
The exhibition concludes with artists whose work embodies pure abstraction. Alfredo Volpi’s paintings from the 1940s and onwards showcase his departure from figurative works into purely geometric patterns. Rubem Valentim’s sculptures and geometric paintings bridge Afro-Brazilian cultural traditions with modernism. Geraldo de Barros’s unconventional “Fotoformas” photographs utilize unusual medium-altering techniques.
Through “Brasil! Brasil! The Birth of Modernism,” the Royal Academy aims to compensate for its 1944 exhibition of Brazilian modernism that was subject to political coercion. By highlighting the works of lesser-known Brazilian artists, the exhibition aims to raise awareness and appreciation for their contributions to modernism. It presents Brazilian modernism as an amorphous movement, showcasing the diversity of artistic expression during that period.
Prediction and recommendation for the industry:
Based on the resurgence of interest in Brazilian modernism, it is likely that contemporary artists will draw inspiration from this period and incorporate its themes, techniques, and color palettes into their own works. The exploration of Brazilian culture and identity will continue to be an important subject for artists, especially as Brazil continues to grapple with issues of diversity and inclusivity.
To stay relevant, art institutions and galleries should consider hosting more exhibitions that highlight lesser-known artists from diverse regions. This not only provides a platform for underrepresented artists but also enriches the art scene by introducing new perspectives and styles.
Additionally, there is a need for more research and documentation of self-taught and outsider artists. These artists often challenge traditional art narratives and contribute unique perspectives to the art world. By recognizing and studying their works, art institutions can broaden the understanding of art history and provide a platform for marginalized voices.
References:
– https://www.artnews.com/art-in-america/interviews/brasil-brasil-the-birth-modernism-1234578415/
– https://www.royalacademy.org.uk/exhibition/brasil-brasil-the-birth-of-modernismo
– https://www.royalacademy.org.uk/article/brasil-brasil-political-background-1944-brazilian-modernism