IN-PERSON: Prague – Section B

Abstract

Between 1930 and 1970, in Portugal, during the dictatorial period known as Estado Novo, art had a modernist expression and aesthetic, representing various themes. Throughout the city of Porto (Portugal), important murals were executed in public and private spaces and commissioned by key artists such as Dordio Gomes, Camarinha, Resende, and Pomar. The artists may have used a variety of materials and techniques – some more close to the traditional fresco technique than others -, expressing their creative individuality in the service of mythological, religious, historical, and playful themes. In government commissions, the use of the mural as a means of propaganda, exalting the nationalist spirit and morals, is notorious, although sometimes subtle. Considering the various dimensions of these murals and given the major transformations of recent decades, we question ourselves about the role they represent today and how we can promote their value and safeguard them.