Manoel Martins

Journey of a Polymath in Brazilian Arts

Manoel Martins (São Paulo, SP, 1911 - same, 1979) was a remarkable illustrator, painter, draftsman, engraver, sculptor, and goldsmith. He began his artistic career in 1924 as a goldsmith, and in 1927, he devoted himself to watchmaking, later moving into commerce. Alongside these activities, Martins reignited his passion for the arts, and from 1931, he attended classes taught by sculptor Vicente Larocca (1892 - 1964).

Seeking to deepen his studies, Martins participated in courses offered by the Society for Modern Art - SPAM, located near the Santa Helena Building. In 1936, he shared a studio with Mario Zanini (1907 - 1971) and met other members of the Grupo Santa Helena. The following year, he joined the São Paulo Artistic Family - FAP, an important collective of artists seeking to renew the artistic scene in São Paulo.

In 1939, he attended the meetings of the Musical Cultural Group, initiated by Dr. Afonso Jagle, and set up his studio on Bittencourt Rodrigues street. In 1942, he participated in cultural meetings organized by Osório César and contributed to the publication of the album "35 Lithographs by Seven Artists."

In 1944, a significant trip to Salvador provided Martins with the opportunity to illustrate the book "Bahia de Todos os Santos," by Jorge Amado (1912 - 2001). During this period, he also collaborated with journalist Odorico Tavares (1912 - 1980) to hold the first modern art exhibition in the city.

Manoel Martins was a central figure in the evolution of Brazilian art, especially in São Paulo, where his contributions influenced generations of artists. His works, spanning various forms of artistic expression, continue to be celebrated for their versatility and significant impact on Brazilian modernism.