Maria Martins: Tropical Fictions

Maria Martins was a Brazilian artist who was a key figure in New York's Surrealist circles and in Latin American modernism. She is known for her bronze sculptures of hybrid and mythological figures, which often explored themes of desire and eroticism. This survey examines her significant role in Surrealism, her interpretation of Amazonian mythologies, and her female perspective on these themes.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 14 May 2022
Publisher: MASP

Maria Martins, a prominent figure in New York's Surrealist circles and Latin American modernism, gained recognition for her exquisite bronze sculptures that depicted hybrid and mythological figures. Hailing from Brazil, Martins' artistic journey took her to various corners of the world, including New York in the 1940s, where she actively participated in the city's expat Surrealist community. This comprehensive survey explores Martins' pivotal and active role in Surrealism, juxtaposed with narratives about her romantic involvement with Duchamp. Furthermore, it delves into her profound interpretation of Amazonian mythologies and iconography, which began at the outset of her career. Additionally, the survey sheds light on Martins' unique female perspective on themes of desire and eroticism, highlighting her contributions to the Surrealist movement and the broader artistic landscape.

Maria Martins, a renowned Brazilian artist, played a significant role in New York's Surrealist circles and Latin American modernism. Her bronze sculptures, featuring hybrid and mythological figures, garnered widespread acclaim. Through her marriage to a Brazilian diplomat, Martins built a substantial portion of her career outside Brazil, residing in New York during the 1940s. During this period, she actively participated in the city's expat Surrealist community.

Martins' artistic journey was marked by her profound interpretation of Amazonian mythologies and iconography. From the outset of her career, she delved into the rich tapestry of Amazonian culture, drawing inspiration from its rich heritage and symbolism. Her sculptures captured the essence of the Amazonian landscape, its flora, fauna, and indigenous communities, while also exploring themes of desire, eroticism, and the feminine psyche.

In addition to her artistic contributions, Martins' unique female perspective on themes of desire and eroticism set her apart within the Surrealist movement. She challenged traditional gender roles and stereotypes, exploring the complexities of female sexuality and the power of the feminine spirit. Through her sculptures, Martins offered a fresh and provocative exploration of the human condition, challenging viewers to reconsider their perceptions of reality and the role of women in society.

Maria Martins' legacy continues to inspire and influence artists today. Her profound understanding of Amazonian mythologies and her ability to convey the essence of the feminine experience through her sculptures have made her a revered figure in the world of art. Her contributions to Surrealism and the broader artistic landscape have left an indelible mark, and her work continues to be celebrated and studied for its artistic merit and cultural significance.

Weight: 1380g
Dimension: 287 x 216 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9786557770108