E, Portugal cresceu

In this second approach to Camões, the focus is on the symbolic dimension of his greatest work — The Lusiads. An epic poem that encompasses an entire country, whose collective identity emerges expanded and brighter. It is this expansion that is represented through the maps: a more contained Portugal before the work, and afterwards, vaster, more visible, almost emerging, outlined in white as if the light radiating from the verses illuminated the territory itself.

Camões' influence, projected beyond time, is here marked in red — dots scattered across the globe indicate the presence of the Portuguese language and the traces left by Portugal in the world. The poet's beard and laurel wreath also share this vibrant red, in an echo of passion, courage and persistence.

Also present are the "cuts" that are already a signature of the artist. The vertical cut marks the historical milestone that The Lusiads represents — a before and after in the national consciousness. The horizontal section, inclined upwards, evokes the growth of Portuguese identity from this unique work, which continues to span centuries with singular relevance and strength.

Year: 2024 | Dimensions: Diptych 160x100 (cm) | Technique: Acrylic on inverted canvas prepared with transparent plaster