The Royal Academy is hosting an exhibition on Brazilian modernist art from 28 January to 21 April, showcasing 130 works by ten artists. This event commemorates Brazil’s artistic legacy, featuring key figures like Anita Malfatti and Tarsila do Amaral, and honours the first UK exhibition of modern Brazilian art in 1944.
The early to mid-20th century was a transformative era for Brazilian art, highlighted by the establishment of the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) and the Museum of Modern Art in Rio de Janeiro in the 1940s. In 1951, Brazil launched its first biennial, the second ever after Venice. Currently, a major exhibition at the Royal Academy in London showcases Brazilian modernist art from 28 January to 21 April, featuring works by ten artists.
The exhibition includes around 130 pieces, spanning various styles from colourful figurative works by Anita Malfatti, a pivotal figure influenced by European modernism, to Djanira’s Indigenous art, Vicente do Rego Monteiro’s quasi-cubist pieces, and the renowned Tarsila do Amaral. Additionally, it pays tribute to the first show of modern Brazilian art in the UK held by the Royal Academy in 1944, featuring seven works from that original exhibition.
Brazil’s art scene flourished in the early 20th century, particularly after the founding of significant institutions like MASP and the Rio de Janeiro Museum of Modern Art. These institutions helped cultivate and promote modernist trends in the region. The 1951 biennial marked Brazil’s entrance into the international art conversation. The current exhibition at the Royal Academy aims to celebrate and recognise the legacy and diversity of Brazilian modern art.
The Royal Academy’s exhibition highlights Brazil’s rich modernist heritage through a selection of diverse artworks from significant artists. It not only showcases individual talents but also commemorates important historic exhibitions. This event solidifies Brazil’s status in the modern art world and educates audiences about its vibrant artistic history.
Original Source: www.apollo-magazine.com