Art, Design, and Textiles
We visited the Museum do Indio (Rio de Janeiro), School of Mines (in Ouro Preto), the monastery's collection of daily items used over the decades (Caraca), the Art Museum in Ribeirao Preto, and the Art Museum of the University of Sao Paulo.
Brazilian art, architecture and textiles reflect the contributions of a variety of peoples: the native Brazilians, the Portuguese, the French, the Spanish, the African, the Asian, and middle eastern immigrants. In addition, African and Roman Catholic religions and the varying climates found in Brazil have influenced art, architecture and textiles.The Colonial architecture of the 17th century reflected the realities of living amid changing political leadership as European countries battled for portions of Brazil, and the demands created by the culture. Buildings had simple lines, thick walls, and few windows. The courtyard featured cooking areas. Clay tiled roofs allowed rain water to be carried away, insuring a dry and cooler interior. Homes often faced the ocean, if possible.When gold and gemstones were discovered in the Minas Gerais region of Brazil in the 17th and 18th centuries, the building of churches became paramount and a “Brazilian Baroque” style featured an exuberance and sensual style and reflected the importance of the church. A neo-classical French design grew in the 19th century when the Portuguese King fled Portugal and invited French artists to come to Brazil.The 20th century saw the introduction of art deco (seen in Rio de Janeiro’s central railway station and the Christ the Redeemer statue). The city of Brasilia, Rio’s Metropolitan Cathedral, Niteroi’s Contemporary Art Museum, and São Paulo’s Art Museum showcase the modern design of Oscar Niemeyer.Jesuit and Benedictine missionaries were the first colonial painters, and they focused on painting churches and sacred objects. In the 17th century, Dutch ships brought Flemish artists who focused on the flora and fauna.Indigenous crafts today feature seeds from Amazon fruits and plants and the plumage of birds. Hammocks are used as beds in the Amazon region, and are sold throughout Brazil. Cotton textiles are common in Brazil and include wall hangings, table runners, rugs, and clothes. Lace production was imported from Europe and remains an important craft in the northeast of Brazil. The Brazilian textile industry employs millions mainly in the clothing area. Leather footwear is a major export.
Lonely Planet's travel guide on Brazil includes more information on art and architecuture as well as on music, history, wildlife, the economy, culture, and religion (www.lonelyplanet.com).