Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso (1887-1918) was one of the most notable artists on the Portuguese art scene of the 20th century. He was born on his parents' farm in Manhufe, Amarante, on November 14, 1887, and from an early age he showed an inclination towards drawing and art. Raised in a wealthy family environment, he spent his childhood between Manhufe and the summer resorts on Espinho beach, where he met Manuel Laranjeira, whose friendship was decisive
... ver mais
Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso (1887-1918) was one of the most notable artists on the Portuguese art scene of the 20th century. He was born on his parents' farm in Manhufe, Amarante, on November 14, 1887, and from an early age he showed an inclination towards drawing and art. Raised in a wealthy family environment, he spent his childhood between Manhufe and the summer resorts on Espinho beach, where he met Manuel Laranjeira, whose friendship was decisive in encouraging his interest in drawing. In 1905, he moved to Lisbon to study Architecture at the Academy of Fine Arts, but at the age of 19, in 1906, he left for Paris with the aim of continuing his studies. However, the bustling artistic environment of Paris drastically altered his destiny, directing him towards painting. Influenced by the illustration of the French press, he abandoned architecture and immersed himself in the world of painting and drawing. The first years in Paris were marked by coexistence with emigrated Portuguese artists, but Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso he gradually distanced himself from this circle to delve deeply into research into international modernism. He studied at the Viti Academy and strengthened ties with Amedeo Modigliani, moving in an international circle that included artists such as Boccioni, Severini, Juan Gris, Sonia and Robert Delaunay, between others. In 1911, Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso moved to a new studio and held notable exhibitions, such as at the Salon des Indépendants and the Salon d'Automne, in addition to exhibiting internationally at the Armory Show in New York, alongside artists such as Braque, Matisse and Duchamp. His presence at this international exhibition helped solidify his status as an internationally renowned artist. In 1915, due to the outbreak of the First World War, Amadeo returned to Portugal and settled in Amarante, where his art matured and became closer to the collage technique. Isolation was interrupted by contact with Sonia and Robert Delaunay, establishing new friendships and artistic projects. The work of Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso demonstrated a remarkable modernity, incorporating elements of the most innovative artistic movements of its time, including Expressionism, Cubism, Futurism and Abstractionism. His work is a fascinating fusion of influences, ranging from African art to the precision of Japanese works. What makes the work of Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso Truly unique is its masterful use of intense colors and exuberant graphics. Each brushstroke and line reveals his mastery in transmitting emotions and ideas through the canvas. In the Portuguese context, Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso He played a fundamental role as a member of the Orpheu group, a literary and artistic movement that revolutionized the arts in Portugal. In this effervescent environment, Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso he established friendly relationships with artists who shared similar artistic and political paradigms, including Almada Negreiros and Santa Rita Pintor. Together, they challenged established conventions and explored new forms of artistic expression. Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso He died in Espinho in October 1918, a victim of pneumonia. At just 30 years old, he left an extraordinary artistic legacy. His work, a captivating mix of influences and intense colors, crossed borders and generations, influencing not only Portuguese art, but also leaving a lasting mark on the international scene. Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso He was, and continues to be, an emblematic figure in the history of Portuguese art. His contribution to the world of art transcended borders and generations, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate art lovers around the world.
