Di Cavalcanti

Emiliano Augusto Cavalcanti de Albuquerque Melo, known as Di Cavalcanti, was a central figure in the Brazilian modernist movement. Born on September 6, 1897, in Rio de Janeiro, he studied at the National School of Fine Arts. In the 1920s, he traveled to Paris to study at the Académie Julian and immersed himself in the local art scene, where he was influenced by contemporary European movements such as Cubism and Surrealism.

Returning to Brazil in 1922, Di Cavalcanti emerged as a leader of modernism, a movement that sought to redefine the national artistic identity. His work is renowned for its vibrant colors, stylized figures, and a modern approach that challenged traditional aesthetic standards. His artworks often depict urban life and workers, with a special focus on black women, a recurring theme in his art.

Di Cavalcanti was also actively involved in politics, advocating for democracy and workers' rights. He passed away on October 26, 1976, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Brazilian art and culture.