Jaider Esbell's Indigenous Artivism at São Paulo Bienal and MAM
Jaider Esbell, a prominent Macuxi artist and activist, has passed away. He played a crucial role in Brazil's indigenous art scene by establishing a 'laboratory' in Boa Vista that highlighted indigenous artists and offered workshops. In an interview with ArtReview, Esbell shared how his artwork, influenced by Makunaimî, tackled environmental and social challenges faced by the Makuxi people in Roraima. His notable pieces include Carta ao Velho Mundo (2021) and Guerra dos Kanaimés (2020), characterized by vivid imagery and mystical elements. Esbell viewed art as a form of 'artivism' to raise awareness of indigenous issues. He organized the Meeting of All Peoples and took part in the Bienal, promoting indigenous rights during times of political turmoil. His creations are featured at Moquém_Surarî and the Bienal de São Paulo.
Key facts
- Jaider Esbell, the Macuxi artist and activist, has died.
- He was a driving force in Brazil's indigenous art movement.
- He ran a self-described 'laboratory' in Boa Vista, Brazil.
- His work is inspired by Makunaimî, both a god and an ancestor.
- He collaborated with shamans from different peoples.
- His work confronts environmental and social abuse of Makuxi land in Roraima.
- He described his work as essential 'artivism'.
- His paintings are intricate and colourful, with a black background as a dominant trope.
Entities
Artists
- Jaider Esbell
- Oliver Basciano
- Mário de Andrade
Institutions
- ArtReview
- Bienal de São Paulo
- Museu de Arte Moderna
- Galeria Millan
- Moquém_Surarî: Contemporary Indigenous Art
- MAM São Paulo
Locations
- Boa Vista
- Brazil
- Roraima
- Guyana
- Venezuela
- São Paulo
- Brasilia
- Raposa Serra do Sol
- Ibirapuera Park