In the early 20th century a new modern art was emerging in Brazil.

Starting in the 1910s and continuing into the 1960s, Brazilian artists were adapting contemporary trends, international influences and artistic traditions to create a new type of modern art; art informed by the vibrant cultures, identities and landscapes of Brazil.

Everyday life in Brazil was the subject of this new modernism and the Indigenous identity and Afro-Brazilian experience were among the many influences these artists drew upon in their work. This was a group of people looking inward at their rich cultural resource to set a new course for modernism that was borne out across South America.

The exhibition will bring an expanded view of Brazilian Modernism to UK audiences, showing work by artists who have historically received less exposure in this country, including women artists Tarsila do Amaral and Anita Malfatti, self-taught artists Alfredo Volpi and Djanira, Afro-Brazilian artist Ruben Valentim and performance artist, Flávio de Caravalho.

Exhibition organised by the Zentrum Paul Klee, Bern in collaboration with the Royal Academy of Arts, London.

Our Friends preview days take place 24 January, 10am–9pm, 25 January, 10am–6pm, 26 January, 10am–6pm.