A Pioneer in Brazilian Arts

Antonio Gonçalves Gomide (Itapetininga, SP, 1895 - Ubatuba, SP, 1967) was a notable Brazilian painter, sculptor, decorator, and scenographer whose artistic training began in Europe. In 1913, he moved with his family to Switzerland, where he attended the Geneva School of Fine Arts until 1918, studying under teachers like Gillard and Ferdinand Hodler (1853-1918). In the 1920s, Gomide moved to France and, in 1922, in Toulouse, worked with Marcel Lenoir (1872-1931), learning the fresco technique.

From 1924 to 1926, he set up his studio in Paris and came into contact with European artists linked to avant-garde movements, also associating with figures such as Victor Brecheret (1894-1955) and Vicente do Rego Monteiro (1899-1970). Gomide returned to Brazil in 1929 and was a central figure in the founding of the Society for Modern Art - SPAM and the Club of Modern Artists - CAM in 1932.

During the 1930s and 1940s, Gomide excelled in producing frescoes and designs for stained glass, in addition to paintings that combined abstract forms with indigenous motifs or landscape compositions. Between 1952 and 1954, he taught drawing at the small school of the São Paulo Museum of Modern Art - MAM/SP. Along with Regina Graz (1897-1973) and John Graz (1891-1980), Gomide is considered one of the introducers of the art deco style in Brazil. His contribution to the visual arts in the country remains influential, reflecting a unique synthesis of cultural and stylistic influences.