“My God, grant me the courage to live 365 days and nights, all empty of your presence. Give me the courage to consider this emptiness as fullness.” These verses by Clarice Lispector, recited in the sweet voice of Maria Bethânia, now resonate on the second floor of the Itaú Cultural Institute, inaugurating the new exhibition of the space, entirely dedicated to the singer.
The exhibition, revealed to the public in March in São Paulo, highlights the power of words and literature in the life of this singer, acclaimed as one of the greatest names in Brazilian music. Curated by the Center for Curatorial and Artistic Programming of Itaú Cultural and director Bia Lessa, the exhibition features audiovisual research by Antônio Venâncio.
“Bethânia is an essence of Brazil that holds great relevance for our collective imagination and our sense of identity and culture,” commented Galiana Brasil, manager of the Department of Curatorial and Artistic Programming at Itaú Cultural and a member of the exhibition’s curatorial team.
This exhibition, she explained, aims to reinforce the singer’s legacy and celebrate her 60-year career. “She [Bethânia] embodies the essence of vocal identity and thought. She is an artist who imbues purpose in her art. Nothing she creates is arbitrary,” she emphasized.
Two exhibition spaces have been designated for this event. The first is on the first floor, featuring 98 photos suspended from the ceiling by steel cables, at eye level with the public. These photos depict various aspects of Bethânia’s life, including her family, her hometown (the city of Santo Amaro, in the Recôncavo Baiano), her friends, her daily life, and images from her shows. The steel cables also support bags filled with water and earth, inscribed with the singer’s name.
“This space represents her territory. This is very much the strength of Santo Amaro and what defines Bethânia,” explained Galiana Brasil in an interview with Agência Brasil.
Each of these photos is accompanied by a phrase reflected on the floor, creating a juxtaposition between what is seen and what is written. Among them, a quote from the singer herself: “The people of the Recôncavo we recognize right away.” Additionally, there are phrases from various writers, composers, and poets who inspired the artist, such as Clarice Lispector, Guimarães Rosa, and Mário de Andrade. As visitors explore this space, they will be enveloped by sounds that evoke the sea and music.
Activities
In addition to the exhibition, Itaú Cultural has prepared a special program to honor the life and work of Maria Bethânia, including a embroidery workshop and shows. The film “Os Doces Bárbaros” will also be screened, available for online viewing on the Itaú Cultural Play platform. “We also have a dedicated section on the website that will offer super exclusive content not found anywhere else, including testimonials and articles,” explained Galiana Brasil.
The exhibition, with free entry, will be open until June 9.
Source: Agência Brasil