Alexandre da Cunha's Fair Trade Exhibition at Galeria Luisa Strina Explores Everyday Objects

Alexandre da Cunha's exhibition Fair Trade is on view at Galeria Luisa Strina in São Paulo. The artist, originally from Rio de Janeiro and now based in London after studying at the Royal College of Art, repurposes mundane objects to examine the human condition. The show's title references the "fair trade" concept, critiquing international commerce. A notable series features embroideries created by the gallerist herself over several years. This collaboration intentionally blurs lines between leisurely handiwork and professional roles in a global market. The exhibition also references female artists like Mira Schendel, Eva Hesse, and Louise Bourgeois, incorporating a feminine perspective into art-making. Contrasting these soft materials are concrete sculptures made from industrially produced parts manually stacked on the floor. Da Cunha's practice of recontextualizing objects, from concrete pipes to dish towels with corporate logos, is internationally recognized, with his work shown in London, Germany, and at the 50th Venice Biennale.