Brasil ! Brasil !
Royal Academy
Until 25th April
An assembly of 10 Brazilian artists, spanning from the early 1900s to mid century, highlight the defining of a new national identity and modernism, together with its distinct European influences. At times there is a sharp contrast between the colour and vibrancy of some works and the striking social statements of poverty, race, war and slavery. To think some of these exhibits (see attached image) hung in the shadows of their celebrated northern hemisphere counterparts is a crying shame – probably another side effect of colonialism.
There are paintings as strong as any post-Impressionist or German Expressionist, connected to Europe (Portugal specifically) and parts of Africa via theology, political ideology, social class, servitude and modernist concepts.
Whatever I was expecting this was far better (and bigger), and often captivating by the breadth and variety in styles – be it the bright bold colours, double exposure photography, Picasso-esque forms and Klee-type abstractions.
This is an extensive exhibition which goes beyond the usual stereotypes, linking both hemispheres not just through artistic influences and colonialism, but also through a determination to express human values under oppression.
– Article written by Graham Everitt