“My God, grant me the courage to live 365 days and nights, all empty of your presence. Give me the courage to regard this emptiness as fullness.” These verses by Clarice Lispector, recited in the sweet voice of Maria Bethânia, now resonate through the second floor of Itaú Cultural Institute, inaugurating the space’s new exhibition, entirely dedicated to the singer.
The exhibition, unveiled to the public in March in São Paulo, highlights the power of words and literature in the life of this singer, acclaimed as one of the greatest names in Brazilian music. Curated by Itaú Cultural’s Curatorial and Artistic Programming Center and director Bia Lessa, the exhibition features audiovisual research by Antônio Venâncio.
“Bethânia is an essence of Brazil that holds significant relevance to our collective imagination and our sense of identity and culture,” remarked Galiana Brasil, manager of Itaú Cultural’s Curatorial and Artistic Programming Department and a member of the exhibition’s curatorial team.
This exhibition, she explained, aims to reinforce the singer’s legacy and celebrate her 60-year career. “She [Bethânia] embodies the essence of vocal identity and thought. She is an artist who imbues purpose into her craft. Nothing she creates is arbitrary,” she emphasized.
Two exhibition spaces have been designated for this event. The first is located on the first floor, featuring 98 photos suspended from the ceiling by steel cables, at eye level with the audience. These photos depict various aspects of Bethânia’s life, including her family, her birthplace (the city of Santo Amaro, in the Recôncavo Baiano), her friends, her daily life, and images from her concerts. The steel cables also support bags filled with water and earth, inscribed with the singer’s name.
“This space represents her territory. This is very much the strength of Santo Amaro and what defines Bethânia,” explained Galiana Brasil in an interview with Agência Brasil.
Each of these photos is accompanied by a phrase reflected on the floor, creating a juxtaposition between what is seen and what is written. Among them is a quote by the singer herself: “People from the Recôncavo you can tell immediately.” Additionally, there are phrases from various writers, composers, and poets who have inspired the artist, such as Clarice Lispector, Guimarães Rosa, and Mário de Andrade. As visitors explore this space, they will be surrounded by sounds reminiscent of the sea and music.
Activities
In addition to the exhibition, Itaú Cultural has curated a special program to honor the life and work of Maria Bethânia, featuring an embroidery workshop and concerts. The film “Os Doces Bárbaros” (The Sweet Barbarians) will also be screened, available for online viewing on the Itaú Cultural Play platform. “We also have a dedicated website section that will offer super exclusive content not found anywhere else, including testimonials and articles,” explained Galiana Brasil.
The exhibition, which offers free admission, will be open until June 9.
Source: Agência Brasil