Saudi-Brazil ties highlighted in Riyadh art gallery

Art lovers in Riyadh had been treated to an exhibition featuring a collection of the prominent Brazilian painter of Brazilian Luiz Geraldo Dolino Nascimento in mid-September.
A joint effort of the Embassy of Brazil in Riyadh and L'Art Pur Gallery, the exhibition, which ran from Sept. 16-19, 2013, was part of activities meant to enhance the cultural ties between Saudi Arabia and Brazil.
Although Dolino has had his work displayed in several galleries around the world, it was the first time that his geometric constructions were shown in the Arabian Peninsula.
Dolino, along with Brazil’s Ambassador to the Kingdom Sergio Luiz Cannes and L'Art Pur Gallery owner and patron Princess Adwa bint Yazeed, were present during the opening ceremonies at the gallery, located at 352 Takhassussi Street in Olaya district.
For the duration of the exhibition, Dolino held a workshop with ASI students and met with some Saudi painters to exchange ideas and experiences.
Born in Rio de Janeiro in 1945, Dolino has staged seven joint exhibitions and 20 solo exhibitions in different countries. His work is characterized by geometric lines and colors and is inspired both by nature and by the first man who resided in Brazil.
The gallery and its pieces were considered a new experience for both local viewers and artists, as well a cultural event for artists who are unable to travel abroad to witness different arts or attend seminars. It has helped in creating a bridge of art and culture between Brazil and the city of Riyadh.
Brazil is best known for famous football stars and coffee. Yet little attention has been paid to the history of Brazilian art and culture or even its rich history. Brazil is the largest Latin American country on the continent, occupying more than half of the total area.
It has the highest population, most of whom speak Portuguese, and is characterized by its breathtaking natural beauty. Brazil is home to 1,000 rivers, the most famous of which is the Amazon. The country also has superb heights and valleys, the largest rainforest in the world and a tropical climate.
Brazil also has a rich culture and houses traditions from all over the world, as it is home to many migrants who have settled among the indigenous people.
Natives of Brazil are known for their annual festivals, love of music and celebrations. The most famous festival, the “Samba Festival,” is held annually in Rio de Janeiro.
Since the beginning of the 16th century, Brazil has witnessed different types of art as a result of European influence. The country has been a European colony for over 300 years.
The most famous art forms at that time were the “Alrakoko” and “Baroque." New art forms emerged during the 18th Century. In the early years of the 20th century, Brazilian artists began to reject European styles and refused to use European stereotypical images. Laser Segal and other Brazilian artists succeeded in taking Brazilian art onto the world stage through their work.
Dolino’s work creates a sense of emotional soundness, according to experts.