Alcides Santos

Alcides Santos (Recife, Pernambuco, 1945 - 2008) was a Brazilian painter renowned for the deep emotional charge and mystical symbolism in his work. He began his artistic career in 1969, influenced and guided by painter Antônio Cavalcanti. His paintings are known for exploring fantastic and archetypal elements, such as fish-birds, amoeboid shapes, and universal symbols like stars and mandalas, creating a visual universe that challenges conventional reality.

During the 1970s, Santos established himself as a prominent figure in the Brazilian art scene. His works, initially dark and tormented, evolved to include a more vibrant color palette and fantastic motifs, though they always maintained an enigmatic tone. Art critic Olívio Tavares de Araújo commented that Santos' art reflects "threateningly deep and unfathomable worlds," highlighting the complexity and symbolic richness of his works.

This ability to weave mystical and everyday elements into his canvases made Alcides Santos one of the most intriguing artists of his generation, with works that continue to fascinate and provoke reflection on the depths of human and cultural experience.