The Roberto Burle Marx Foundation's involvement as lead sponsor of this exhibition aimed to highlight the rich tapestry of Brazilian modernism, with a particular focus on the contributions of Roberto Burle Marx. This emphasis was exemplified by three historic works by Burle Marx, carefully selected by Royal Academy Senior Curator Dr Adrian Locke for their historical significance and originally displayed together on the same wall in 1944, alongside 168 works by over 70 Brazilian modernist artists.

 

That exhibition, the first collective display of Brazilian art in Europe, opened on 22 November 1944 during the final months of the Second World War, when London was still under threat from V-2 rockets, and drew nearly 100,000 visitors, including a visit in its first week by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, later The Queen Mother. All participating artists donated their works to support the Royal Air Force's war effort, with 80 paintings sold, including three by Burle Marx. The Royal Academy initially resisted hosting the exhibition, requiring political intervention to secure three exhibition rooms, reflecting the challenge of introducing Brazilian modernism to a traditionally conservative audience.

 

The landmark exhibition subsequently toured seven other British cities: Norwich, Reading, Manchester, Bristol, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Bath. Burle Marx's contributions, now preserved in museums and collections, continue to exemplify his enduring influence and cultural relevance today.

 

Through our ongoing partnership with the Royal Academy, we continue to champion Burle Marx’s vision, bringing his pioneering approach to art, landscape design, and environmental innovation to new audiences.