7/18/2005 - Portuguese Government Invites Local Artist to Visit and Paint
João de Brito Travels with Brazilian, Canadian and American Creatives
CAPITOLA, CA—Impressionist/figurative painter João de Brito recently became a weeklong guest of the Portuguese government. From July 9th through the 15th, 2005, the Capitola resident joined 16 other specially selected artists, writers, poets and songwriters on a tour of the country that lies along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. The purpose of the visit was for the group of creative Brazilians, Americans and Canadians to transform personal images of Portugal onto paper and canvas. When completed, the government plans to compile the artistic impressions into a “point of reference” publication for locals and people traveling abroad.
Highlights of de Brito’s trip included a dinner at the Palacio de Sant’Ana with His Excellency Carlos Cesar, the President of the Azores, as well as evenings at theaters, galleries and tours of several towns and cities. For his part, de Brito completed two large paintings while abroad, and is currently working on several more oils from his studio, each depicting landscapes of the beautiful Islands of Sao Miguel. In addition, de Brito is painting images from memories of time he spent on own touring the islands of St. George and Faial.
“There were so many magical moments,” said de Brito. “I saw things I’ve seen before – all in a new light. I was inspired by my fellow travelers and humbled to be with such creative, articulate people on a mission to promote the Portuguese culture.”
De Brito was born in the Azores. He immigrated with his family to the East Coast of the U.S. at age ten. In his early 20s, he relocated to the West Coast where he studied and has lived ever since. And while de Brito is proud to be an American citizen, he consistently draws from his Portuguese heritage when he paints, using vibrant colors that elicit light, life and energy. “My goal is to bring forth a sense of expectation,” de Brito explained. “My paintings are filled with hope because they encompass everything good about the earth.”
Recently, de Brito returned from two weeks in Italy, exploring and capturing Rome and Tuscany on canvas. He was also a featured artist at Many Hands Gallery in Capitola from April 1st through July 30th, where he holds the record for the most exhibited solo artist.
De Brito’s paintings have been acquired by a museum, government agencies, corporations and individuals. He has enjoyed successful shows in the Bay Area of California, Washington D.C., New England, Portugal and in the Monterey Peninsula. |