Description

Marcela Lopes is a vibrant testament to the dynamic fusion of regional influences and a deep-rooted commitment to sustainability. Born in Mato Grosso, her artwork is a homage to the natural beauties of the Pantanal, the Amazon, and the Cerrado. Marcela's journey began in the 1990s, when she found her first muse within the walls of local painting studios and first incorporated leather into her art – a medium she has since mastered. Lopes is a beacon of artistic versatility, with a portfolio that spans various media, techniques, and thematic explorations. Her foundation is rooted in a variety of painting techniques including pastel, oil, and acrylic on canvas, as well as other creative practices like porcelain painting and mural creation. As a member of the Association of Plastic Artists of Mato Grosso (ARTEMAT), Marcela Lopes' palette is drenched in the vibrant colors and warmth of her homeland. Lopes has not only exhibited her work at the National Museum of the Republic in Brasília but also graced international stages in Europe and the United States. Her contributions to CasaCor MT were met with acclaim, showcasing her ability to transform spaces into award-winning installations. Throughout her prolific journey, she has garnered international recognition and honorary mentions, illustrating the universal appeal of her work. Her artistry is a lively dance of color and form, recognized for its dynamic range and emotional resonance. Earning accolades like the “Moção Destaque” in the “Faces & Features” competition and being the featured artist of the month at GallerySPT in 2023, Marcela’s work has touched the global art scene. Notably, her exhibit at the “Quando a Arte encontra o Carnaval” in Rio de Janeiro and Saphira & Ventura Gallery in New York showcased her ability to capture the festive spirit and cultural vibrancy. Marcela Lopes’s contributions to the artistic representation of Brazilian culture have traveled from the MACP Museum’s permanent collection to personalizing commercial spaces in the United States with her homage to Rio de Janeiro. Her early works promoting Gaúcha culture in the US set a precedent for her as an artist who not only creates but also educates and celebrates diverse cultures through her canvas. Her win at the “Rádio em movimento” show in Lisbon, Portugal, commemorating the centennial of radio in Brazil, displayed her talent for interlacing art with historical and cultural milestones. Her artworks, layered with sustainable leather from Couro Vale, reflect an ethos of environmental responsibility and advocacy for ethical practices in art. The body of work presented by Lopes demonstrates an eclectic and vibrant style characterized by a vivid use of color and diverse textural elements. She has a particular affinity for both abstract and representational forms, with a strong inclination towards nature and cultural iconography. A recurring theme in Lopes's work is the use of animal imagery. These depictions are not mere representations; they are infused with personality and spirit, often portrayed with an intensity in the eyes, suggesting a deeper connection between the observer and the subject. The animals are rendered with a rich palette and a dynamic sense of life, indicative of the artist’s passion for the natural world and its colorful inhabitants. The texture is another defining characteristic of her work. Lopes utilizes various substrates and techniques to create tactile experiences that invite the viewer to not only gaze upon but also to feel the artwork. The integration of cultural symbols, such as the Christ the Redeemer statue and decorative motifs, suggests an appreciation for the fusion of different cultural elements and a celebration of a global tapestry of traditions. These symbols, set against the backdrop of the natural or abstract, highlight the artist’s ability to create a dialogue between the tangible and the conceptual. Lopes’s collection is a celebration of life’s vibrancy and diversity. Each piece is a manifestation of the Lopes's robust and colorful approach to art, where the reverence for nature, the exploration of abstraction, and the tactile qualities of diverse materials converge. The overall style is indicative of an artist who embraces both the complexity and the simplicity of the world, translating these into artworks that speak to a wide audience through a universal language of bold colors and forms. Whether through the vibrant strokes of a toucan or the abstract beauty of an airbrush painting, Marcela Lopes’s portfolio is an invitation to immerse oneself in a world where color, culture, and creativity collide. As she stands on the cusp of new artistic adventures, Marcela Lopes remains a symbol of how art can embody the spirit of a place, the conscience of an era, and the timeless quest for beauty and meaning. Her narrative is a vivid reminder of the power of art to connect, to represent, and to inspire.