Artist
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Early Life and Education
Birth and Origins: Edith Behring was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on January 17, 1916.
Artistic Training: She received foundational training in drawing and painting from the renowned Brazilian artist Candido Portinari. This mentorship significantly influenced her early artistic development.
Formal Education: Behring pursued formal art education, earning a degree in Art Education from the Universidade do Distrito Federal. This academic background complemented her practical studio training.
Career Development and Influences
Early Teaching Experience: From 1944 to 1950, Behring lived in Belo Horizonte where she taught drawing at the Escola Guignard. This period exposed her to diverse artistic currents.
Continued Studies: Upon returning to Rio de Janeiro, she furthered her studies with Axl Leskoschek and Carlos Oswald at the Fundação Getúlio Vargas, broadening her artistic perspective.
International Exposure: In 1953, Behring was awarded a scholarship to study painting in Paris. However, she shifted her focus to metal engraving during this time, studying with Flávio Shiró, João Luís Chaves and Mário Carneiro.
Key Influences: Her work reflects influences from Brazilian Modernism and European art movements, blending local themes with international styles. She was inspired by the works of Portinari as well as contemporary European artists.
Artistic Style and Major Achievements
Exhibition History: Behring’s career included numerous solo exhibitions in Brazil, Peru, Argentina, Paris, and Rome. She actively showcased her work internationally.
Biennial Participation: She was a regular participant in the São Paulo Art Biennial from 1957 to 1967, gaining recognition among prominent Brazilian artists.
Awards and Recognition: In 1980, she received an award for best individual exhibition by the Associação Paulista de Críticos de Arte, acknowledging her artistic merit.
Artistic Characteristics: Her style is characterized by bold colors, expressive brushstrokes, and exploration of themes related to nature, human figures, and abstract forms. She worked in various mediums including painting, engraving, and woodcut.
Legacy and Historical Significance
Impact on Art Education: Behring played a significant role in shaping the Brazilian art education system, inspiring future generations of artists and educators. She helped establish the engraving studio at the Museum of Modern Art, Rio de Janeiro.
Museum Collections: Her work is held in various museums and private collections, including the Museu de Arte de São Paulo and the Pinacoteca do Estado de São Paulo, ensuring her artistic legacy endures.
Continued Relevance: Edith Behring’s contributions to Brazilian Modernism continue to be studied and appreciated. Her work provides valuable insight into the evolution of art in Brazil during the 20th century.
Behring passed away in Rio de Janeiro in 1996, leaving behind a rich artistic legacy that continues to inspire and influence artists today.
Museum
On show in Brasília, Brazil
A Modernist Sanctuary in the Heart of Brasília
In the heart of a city sculpted by modernist ambition, where clean lines and geometric precision define the horizon, the
Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil – Brasília
emerges as a luminous sanctuary for the creative spirit. Established in 2000, this institution is far more than a mere repository for artifacts; it is a living, breathing dialogue between Brazil’s rich historical heritage and its pulsating contemporary pulse. As part of a prestigious network initiated by Banco do Brasil, the CCBB Brasília serves as a vital cultural crossroads where cinema, theater, music, and literature converge. To step inside is to enter a space where the architectural elegance of Alba Rabelo Cunha meets the boundless imagination of the Brazilian people, creating an atmosphere that is simultaneously sophisticated and deeply accessible.
The architecture itself acts as a silent protagonist in the museum's narrative. Eschewing the heavy ostentation often found in grander metropolitan institutions, the building embraces a refined minimalism that mirrors the very essence of Brasília. Its design utilizes textured concrete panels and a layout that maximizes the influx of natural light, fostering an environment of clarity and contemplation. This intentional use of space allows the museum to feel intimate yet expansive, providing a serene backdrop for the diverse array of media on display. For the interior designer or art enthusiast, the building offers a masterclass in how structural harmony can elevate the sensory experience of viewing art, making every exhibition feel like an integrated part of a larger, cohesive aesthetic vision.
A Curated Journey Through Brazilian Identity
The soul of the CCBB Brasília resides in its meticulously curated collection, which prioritizes the exploration of Brazil's multifaceted cultural identity. Rather than clinging solely to the static weight of historical masterpieces, the institution champions the avant-garde and the contemporary, seeking works that provoke thought and reflect current social shifts. One cannot wander through these halls without being struck by the geometric prowess of
Francisco Togni
, whose piece
‘Utilitary Centro Cultural (lado B)’
utilizes a palette of cool tones to capture an industrial realism that is both haunting and beautiful. This commitment to abstraction and form is balanced by the delicate, expressive mastery of
Carybé
, whose pen and ink drawings offer a tender, meticulous window into the traditional rhythms of Brazilian life.
This dynamic programming extends far beyond the permanent collection, as the museum is renowned for its ceaseless pursuit of artistic evolution. The galleries frequently transform to host temporary exhibitions that tackle profound themes—from the intricate photographic narratives of the Pará region to poignant explorations of the Black experience in Brazil. These showcases are not merely displays but intellectual provocations, often inviting visitors to confront challenging social truths with nuance and sensitivity. By blending high art with social discourse, the CCBB Brasília ensures that its halls remain a site of active engagement, where the act of looking becomes an act of understanding, making it an indispensable destination for collectors seeking depth and curators seeking relevance.
A Legacy of Accessibility and Connection
What truly distinguishes the Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil is its profound commitment to cultural democratization. Conceived as a space that transcends social boundaries, the museum operates under the belief that art belongs to everyone. This mission is realized through an expansive educational program that includes workshops, lectures, and community events designed to nurture curiosity across all generations. It is this dedication to fostering a new lineage of artists and thinkers that cements its role as a cornerstone of the Brazilian landscape. Whether one is drawn by the allure of international cinema screenings or the immersive power of a large-scale installation, the CCBB Brasília offers an experience that is both intellectually enriching and emotionally resonant, standing as a beacon of creativity in the modern age.
