Depicting diverse cultures, identities and landscapes, the art in Brazil is among the best in the world. Showcasing the country’s distinct modern movement during the 20th century is an exciting exhibition by the Royal Academy: Brasil! Brasil! The Birth of Modernism. Focusing on Indigenous identity and the Afro-Brazilian experience, the exhibition presents over 130 works by ten groundbreaking artists, illuminating Brazil's artistic legacy. If you want to dive deeper into art in Brazil, look no further; our consultants have their fingers firmly on the pulse of the country’s art scene, from artist’s homes to art galleries. Grab your easels and read on for their recommendations...
Artists’ homes
Casa do Sertao
Casa do Serato is a restored historical house tied to the legacy of Tarsila do Amaral, one of the Brazilian modernists featured in the Royal Academy’s exhibition. Situated on Sao Bernardo Farm, just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Sao Paulo, it’s an ideal day trip and serene countryside escape. Immerse yourself in the rural landscape that inspired Amaral’s iconic works, gain insights into her life inside the house and learn about the rich history of Brazil’s modernist movement.
Image: Tarsila do Amaral, Lake, 1928
Oil on canvas, 75.5 x 93 cm
Collection of Hecilda and Sérgio Fadel
Photo: Jaime Acioli
© Tarsila do Amaral S/A
Exhibition organised by the Zentrum Paul Klee, Bern in collaboration with
the Royal Academy of Arts, London
Casa de Portinari
Over the span of his career, Candido Portinari painted over 5,000 canvases. These were predominantly bleak portrayals of Brazilian workers and peasants, some of which can be viewed at Brasil! Brasil! The Birth of Modernism. Though he sadly passed in 1962, a victim of intoxication from his paints, his legacy lives on in his former house in Bradowski, Sao Paulo: Casa de Portinari. Now a museum, visitors can explore the rooms where he lived and worked, admire his breathtaking murals and stroll through the charming chapel decorated with his paintings.
Art galleries
Instituto Inhotim
Instituto Inhotim is a one-of-a-kind, open-air museum that fuses contemporary art with a botanical garden. Located in the Atlantic Forest in Minas Gerais, its 345 acres of greenery are peppered with over 4,300 tropical plant species and around 1,300 pieces of artwork from 30 countries. Expect paintings, sculptures, drawings and video installations from famous contemporary artists like Yayoi Kusama, Dan Graham and Olafur Eliasson. It’s no wonder Inhotim is likened to a Disneyland for art lovers.
Museu de Arte de Sao Paulo
The Museu de Arte de Sao Paulo (MASP) is as famous for featuring some of the best art in Brazil as it is for its iconic exterior. Housed in a building designed by famed architect Lina Bo Bardi, its concrete and glass structure is a celebrated landmark in Sao Paulo. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of European art (Latin America’s largest), Brazilian works and a smaller array of African and Asian art – over 11,000 pieces in total. No biggie.
Art experiences
Sao Paulo street art tour
In Sao Paulo, it’s almost impossible to stroll the streets without stumbling across Brazilian art – no surface is left untouched. Guided by a local artist, see the best of the best in Vila Madalena, a vibrant neighbourhood home to the legendary Beco do Batman (Batman Alley) and other colourful graffitied walls. It’s also a super spot for souvenir shopping, as the streets are lined with local artists selling handmade crafts.
Bahian music and dance show
Celebrate the musical side of Brazil’s art with a folkloric ballet show at Miguel Santana Theater in Salvador. This show honours Bahian and Afro-Brazilian heritage, featuring sacred dances dedicated to the Orishas (deities of the Candomble religion) alongside the acrobatic movements of Capoeira, a traditional Brazilian martial art. We recommend combining this with a visit to Salvador’s Afro-Brazilian Museum, where stunning works such as wood carvings, baskets and pottery showcase Brazilian and African traditions.
