Candido Portinari

Candido Portinari (Brodósqui, São Paulo, 1903 - Rio de Janeiro, 1962) was one of the most important Brazilian painters of Modernism, whose works achieved international recognition. From a young age, he demonstrated significant skill in drawing and painting, motivating him to pursue his artistic passion. At 18, he moved to Rio de Janeiro, where he enrolled at the National School of Fine Arts.

He won the Travel Prize at the National Salon of Fine Arts in 1928, allowing him to study in Europe. Throughout his career, Portinari painted a series of works reflecting social themes, such as "Coffee" and "Emigrants," and notable historical panels, including "War and Peace" for the UN headquarters in New York. Other significant works include "The First Mass in Brazil," "Saint Francis of Assisi," and "Tiradentes."

Portinari is remembered not only for his vibrant and lively paintings but also for his active involvement in social and cultural issues. His legacy endures through his artistic contributions and the significant impact he had on Brazilian and world art. The artist's death in 1962 was attributed to lead poisoning, a tragic consequence of prolonged exposure to lead-based paints used in his works.

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