Geraldo de Barros

Brazilian, 1923 - 1998
Geraldo de Barros (February 27, 1923 – April 17, 1998) was a multi-talented Brazilian artist whose contributions spanned painting, photography, engraving, graphic arts, and industrial design. A prominent figure in Brazil's concrete art movement, De Barros co-founded Grupo Ruptura and gained international acclaim for his innovative approach to abstract photography and modernism, earning recognition as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century according to The Guardian.
 
Born in Chavantes, São Paulo, De Barros began his artistic journey at a young age, experimenting with photography using a homemade camera he constructed at just 16 years old. His early fascination with manipulating images laid the foundation for his later groundbreaking work.
 
After studying painting under various mentors and immersing himself in the principles of abstraction, De Barros delved into photography in the late 1940s. He co-founded Grupo XV and explored Gestalt theory, form, and industrial design influences, paving the way for his Fotoformas series, which revolutionized photography in Brazil.
 
De Barros's pursuit of artistic excellence led him to Paris and later the Ulm School of Design in Germany, where he honed his skills in lithography, engraving, and graphic arts. His immersion in concrete art prompted him to co-found Grupo Ruptura and advocate for abstract and concrete artistic principles.
 
Beyond his artistic endeavors, De Barros ventured into furniture design, establishing successful companies like Unilabor and Hobjeto. Despite facing financial challenges due to political instability, his artistic vision remained unwavering.
 
In the later years of his life, De Barros returned to photography, producing the "Sobras" series with the assistance of his collaborator Ana Moraes. His work garnered international attention, with exhibitions held in Switzerland and the United States.
 
Geraldo de Barros's legacy continues to inspire artists and scholars worldwide, with retrospectives and documentaries celebrating his enduring impact on Brazil's art history. His innovative spirit and artistic vision remain a testament to his indelible mark on the world of art and design.
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