The Affinity of Neoconcretism: Interdisciplinary Collaborations in Brazilian Modernism, 1954-1964

The 1950s and early 1960s in Brazil were a period of optimism and economic development, and the Neoconcretists, a group of artists and poets, played a significant role in this transformation. Mariola V. Alvarez's book explores how the Neoconcretists challenged existing divides between high and low art and between fields, revealing how art and intellectual work in Brazil occurred within a local political and social context and emerged from the transnational movement of artists, artworks, published materials, and ideas.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2023
Publisher: University of California Press

The 1950s and early 1960s in Brazil marked a remarkable era of immense optimism and economic prosperity. In her insightful book titled "The Affinity of Neoconcretism," Mariola V. Alvarez delves into the role played by the Neoconcretists, a group of artists and poets who emerged in Rio de Janeiro from 1959 to 1961, in shaping this national transformation. Alvarez meticulously charts the interactions between the Neoconcretists and explores how they collaborated to challenge the existing boundaries between high art and low art, as well as between various artistic fields such as fine art and dance. Through this comprehensive study, Alvarez unveils the intricate tapestry of art and intellectual work in Brazil, revealing how it unfolded within the local political and social context while also being intricately connected to the transnational movement of artists, artworks, published materials, and ideas.

The Neoconcretists emerged as a vibrant and dynamic collective, bringing together a diverse group of artists and poets who shared a common vision of challenging the established artistic norms and conventions. Their collaborative spirit and innovative approach to art-making set them apart from their contemporaries. The group's members included renowned artists such as Lygia Clark, Hélio Oiticica, and Cildo Meireles, as well as poets like Carlos Drummond de Andrade and João Cabral de Melo.

One of the key achievements of the Neoconcretists was their ability to bridge the gap between high art and popular culture. They recognized the importance of incorporating elements of popular culture into their artistic practices, in order to engage a wider audience and address social and political issues. This fusion of high art and popular culture was a hallmark of the Neoconcretist movement and contributed to its broader appeal.

The Neoconcretists also played a significant role in promoting the exchange of ideas and cultural expressions across borders. They actively participated in international art exhibitions and festivals, showcasing Brazilian art and culture to a global audience. Through their interactions with artists and intellectuals from other countries, the Neoconcretists contributed to the development of a global artistic community and fostered a sense of cultural interconnectedness.

In addition to their artistic contributions, the Neoconcretists were also deeply committed to social and political activism. They used their art as a platform to raise awareness about social inequality, poverty, and the struggle for civil rights in Brazil. Their works often addressed the marginalized and oppressed communities, challenging the dominant narratives and promoting a more inclusive and equitable society.

The Affinity of Neoconcretism is a valuable contribution to the study of Brazilian art and culture. It sheds light on the complex interplay between art, politics, and society during a period of significant transformation. Alvarez's meticulous research and insightful analysis provide a rich understanding of the Neoconcretist movement and its impact on Brazilian art and culture. This book will be of interest to scholars, artists, and anyone with an interest in the history and development of contemporary art.

Weight: 1043g
Dimension: 229 x 178 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520388963