Mid Century Brazil

Crafting Modernism:

Mid-Century Brazilian Furniture

JOAQUIM TENREIRO JOSÉ ZANINE CALDAS SÉRGIO RODRIGUES LINA BO BARDI

MARTIN EISLER & CARLO HAUNER

JORGE ZALSZUPIN

EXHIBITION DATES : April 30th - June 15th

Opening night: April 30th, 6-8 pm

Brazilian mid-century furniture, a unique aspect of modernism, offers a captivating fusion of organic and geometric elements rooted in the rich natural landscape of Brazil. Among the leading figures in this movement, José Zanine Caldas stands out for his use of fallen tree trunks from the Atlantic Rainforest to create stunning furniture pieces between 1975 and 1980, highlighting the beauty of Brazil's environment while raising awareness about deforestation's risks.

Brazilian modernist furniture emerged from a landscape influenced by political turmoil and a desire to establish a post-colonial identity. Designers like Sergio Rodrigues gained international recognition for incorporating indigenous hardwoods like jacaranda and imbuia into their iconic designs, such as the Mole chair, which embodied a sense of Brazilian warmth and wit.

Lina Bo Bardi, an Italian-born architect and designer, contributed significantly to Brazil's modernist scene with her innovative architectural projects, like the São Paulo Museum of Art and Casa de Vidro. Her work demonstrated a deep appreciation for Brazilian culture, despite her challenges as a female and foreign designer in mid-century Brazil.

Joaquim Tenreiro and Jorge Zalszupin, both immigrants, brought fresh perspectives to Brazilian modernism. Tenreiro's work with wicker and cane made his furniture lightweight and suitable for Brazil's climate, while Zalszupin's collaborative approach at L’Atelier integrated various disciplines to create cohesive design projects throughout Brasilia.

Martin Eisler's journey from Austria to Brazil reflected the international scope of modernism. His sleek and curved designs, crafted with exotic woods and other materials, became synonymous with Brazilian mid-century modernism. Together, these designers shaped a distinctive style that continues to inspire and influence the world of design today.

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