Bits of fabric, metal scraps, trash—these are just some of the experimental materials artists have used to make political statements. From sculpture to the graphic arts, a vibrant tradition of found materials, assemblage, and collage exists in Brazil, where artists have deployed these techniques to illuminate economic, racial, and environmental issues. This talk will explore innovative works at the Harvard Art Museums and beyond, followed by a demonstration of how to make a collagraphic print at home using found materials.

This talk is part of a series investigating power dynamics in artworks across the collections. Considering intersections of art and power, our curatorial team discuss how artists engage with social and political crises, use art to upset systems of power, and imagine more equitable futures.

Led by:
Natalia Ángeles Vieyra, Maher Curatorial Fellow of American Art, Division of European and American Art
Joanna Sheers Seidenstein, Stanley H. Durwood Foundation Curatorial Fellow, Division of European and American Art
Francesca Bewer, Research Curator, Conservation and Technical Study Programs, Director of Summer Institute for Technical Studies in Art

This free talk will take place online via Zoom. Pre-registration is not required. Please visit the 'External Link' below to join.