This is the second in a series of works inspired by the world famous carnival from Brazil.
The term ‘Carnival’ or ‘carne vale’ means ‘goodbye to the meat’ or ‘farewell to the flesh’. It is a celebration of the oncoming of the Christian period of lent, during which believers forego pleasures of the flesh in an attempt to identify with their Lord.
Carnival music samba has its roots in the heavy drum rhythms of West African people. It can mean several things. One means is to pray, or to invoke the spirits of ancestors. ‘Samba!’ could also be a complaint, a cry, or an expression of the spirit of “the blues” Still other meanings include a reference to the navel as symbol of intimacy, and a simple invitation to dance.
Carnival represents a complex interplay of European, African and Native South American cultures. The Portuguese introduced Christianity, forbidding the natives, and slaves them from worshipping their traditional Deities. As a result, traditional worships and traditions were disguised within the dominant Christian celebrations.
Carnival is an extremely rich example of the interaction between different people and beliefs.
Antonio’s work explores both the overt and covert themes of Carnival through his personal experiences. His Hero’s and memories. It’s Time, rhythm and form. The sensuality, sexuality and power.
Artist Information
View art from Antonio Da Silva
Previous by this artist
WHAT IS ART BUFFET 