José Barbosa's 'Luz própria' Exhibition Opens in São Paulo with 34 Works

José Barbosa da Silva, a 74-year-old artist from Olinda, Pernambuco, presents his solo exhibition 'Luz própria' at Arte 57 in São Paulo. The show features 34 works, including 28 previously unseen pieces, spanning prints, acrylics on canvas and paper, sculptures, and wood carvings. Born to a carpenter and restorer, Barbosa began carving chests in his father's workshop before launching his artistic career in 1963 with encouragement from painter Adão Pinheiro. He co-organized the 1st Salão de Arte Popular in Natal with Janete Costa in 1965 and was part of the Movimento de Arte Ribeira alongside João Câmara, Vicente do Rego Monteiro, and Guita Charifker. Between 1972 and 1978, he lived in Germany and France, later holding about 20 international exhibitions abroad until 1998. Gallery owner Renato Magalhães Gouvea notes that Barbosa is more recognized outside Brazil, and the exhibition showcases his ability to unite diverse references, genres, and themes without adhering to a single technique. The opening on September 24 coincides with the Arte-Circuito Jardim Europa, offering free van service to six galleries in the neighborhood. The exhibition runs from September 24 to October 21, with free admission Monday to Friday, 10 AM to 6 PM, at Av. 9 de Julho, 5144 in São Paulo.