Waldomiro De Deus

Waldomiro de Deus Souza (Itagibá, Bahia, 1944) is a prominent Brazilian painter and draftsman recognized in the naïf art scene. Coming from a humble background, he spent his early years traveling through the countryside of Bahia and northern Minas Gerais before moving to São Paulo in 1959, where he worked as a shoeshiner and gardener. He began his artistic career in 1961 using gouache and cardboard he found at an antique dealer's house. After being dismissed from his job, Waldomiro took his works to the Viaduto do Chá, where he sold two paintings to an American buyer on his first day.

His talent caught the attention of decorator Terry Della Stuffa, who supported him by providing materials and a place to paint. In 1966, Waldomiro held his first solo exhibition at the Fundação Armando Álvares Penteado (FAAP). He is known for his provocative and irreverent works, which often portray religious themes in unconventional ways, such as depictions of the Virgin Mary and Jesus in subversive styles. This provocative approach earned him recognition and controversy, including being kidnapped by young men from the Tradição, Família e Propriedade (TFP) organization for his daring artworks.

Waldomiro exhibited his works in various countries, including England, Italy, Belgium, Germany, and the United States. In 1972, he returned to live in Osasco and later moved to Goiânia, where he established a new home. His art captures the daily life and folklore of his homeland, depicting popular themes such as festivals, myths, and legendary figures. Recognized as one of Brazil's leading primitivists, alongside José Antônio da Silva and Djanira, his works frequently feature mulatto figures and small dogs. In 1983, he was awarded the Awarding the Statue of Victory by the Centro Studi e Ricerche Delle Nazioni in Italy, solidifying his international acclaim.

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