by usia review

Indelible mark on the Portuguese art scene

Noronha da Costa (1942-2020), a distinguished contemporary visual artist, left an indelible mark on the Portuguese art scene. Born in Lisbon, his artistic journey encompassed various disciplines, with painting always at the forefront, characterized by a continuous exploration of image and perception.

Through his work, da Costa engaged in profound reflections on the human condition and society, frequently challenging aesthetic norms and conventional narratives. His art gained prominence during the tumultuous period of the Carnation Revolution in 1974, embodying the political and social influences prevalent in much of his creation. In painting, da Costa exhibited a unique mastery of color and form, crafting compositions that oscillated between abstraction and figurative representation, evident in the works on display. His expressive use of color revealed a keen sensitivity to conveying emotions and moods. His paintings often featured vibrant and contrasting hues, establishing an intense and emotional atmosphere. Da Costa used color not merely for visual representation but as a powerful tool to evoke feelings, conveying profound emotions to the viewer.

Moreover, he incorporated complex layers of textures, providing visual and tactile richness to his works. These textures, often achieved through vigorous brushstrokes and mixed techniques, added depth and dynamism to his paintings. The narrative fluidity in many of his pieces was achieved through a combination of organic and geometric forms. Da Costa did not adhere to literal representation; instead, he employed abstract shapes to suggest broader narratives, inviting observers to interpret and actively participate in creating meaning for each piece.

Today, Noronha da Costa's relentless pursuit of exploring perception continues to intrigue, challenge, and inspire contemporary artists, academics, and historians alike. His innovative optical experiments are particularly celebrated in the context of discussions about art following the Revolução dos Cravos.

This artwork it is part of the Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian art collection

@noronhadacosta #noronhadacosta @Gulbenkian @cam #gulbenkian

Thanks to: Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian – Centro de Arte Moderna Gulbenkian