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Mapa Mudo - Award-Winning Artwork
2024
Title (Original)
Mapa Mudo
Title (Translated)
Mute Map
Technique and Material
Acrylic on canvas
Dimension
128x180cm
| Synopsis
This work presents a new occurrence between two overlapping planes, highlighting a figure in the foreground, who assumes the role of protagonist. This figure is progressively attuned to the second space/plane, which is completely unknown to it, but which, in response, liquefies and assumes new forms, also seeking mutual harmonization.
This process of recognition and the supposed desire for discovery and fusion of spaces/planes is witnessed in this capture of a unique moment in the creation of an original world map (a new reality, distinct from the two original planes). The ongoing dialogue, of attunement of energies, colors, and forms, is carried out silently and respectfully. "Mute Map" reflects on the presence and belonging of something and someone to a given space that, in the specific case of the pictorial self-portrait (that is, a representation of oneself in mute imagery), is uprooted from the plane of reality and discovers and migrates beyond the concrete. As for influences, the painting has subtle evocations of works already exhibited at A Brasileira, namely through the color contrasts and modernist figure limits, present in “Os Críticos”, by Nikias Skapinakis (still on display) and “Auto-Retrato num grupo”, by José de Almada Negreiros (a painting created for that space).
See Mapa Mudo V1 (First Version of the Series)
| Awards & Recognition
In November of 2024, Martim Melo de Vilhena received the national painting prize, d'A Brasileira do Chiado, for the artwork "Mapa Mudo" - “Mute Map”, which is exhibited at the cafe until the end of 2025. Being awarded this painting prize marks a significant milestone in his artistic career. Rooted in a century-long tradition of promoting art and culture in Lisbon, this prize recognizes the excellence, originality, and relevance of their work within the contemporary Portuguese art scene.
Exhibiting in the iconic cafe of Brasileira do Chiado, a stage for generations of artists and a historic reference for artistic modernity in Portugal, allows their work to engage directly with the public, connecting past and present, tradition and innovation.
More than a recognition, this distinction symbolizes Martim Melo de Vilhena’s active contribution to cultural heritage, consolidating his presence as an influential and prestigious artistic voice whose work inspires and enriches both the artistic community and the broader public.
Timeout Lisboa:
https://www.timeout.pt/lisboa/pt/noticias/conheca-as-dez-novas-obras-do-cafe-a-brasileira-112024
Mensagem de Lisboa:
https://amensagem.pt/2024/11/19/brasileira-novos-quadros-concurso-chiado-cafe/
E-Cultura:
https://www.e-cultura.pt/artigo/34044
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A Brasileira:
https://ovalordotempo.pt/marcas/a-brasileira-do-chiado/