3/01/2019 - 4/05/2019

Bruno Miguel

Bruno Miguel is a Brazilian artist who makes art from found objects. Miguel has a talent for transforming junk into art in a most playful way. He is influenced by Brazilian Tropicália, International Pop Art, and Rio Carnival. Miguel earned a degree in Fine Arts and Painting from the School of Visual Arts at Federal University in Rio de Janeiro. He has had solo exhibitions at Largo das Artes, Rio de Janeiro (2010); Museum Paço Imperial, Rio de Janeiro (2016); Centro Cultural da Caixa Econômica Federal, Rio de Janeiro; and Centro Cultural São Paulo (2016).

Right: Greetings From Lancaster by Bruno Miguel

Bruno Miguel, from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, spent one week earlier this year perusing antique and flea markets in Lancaster County. During his visit, he found porcelain plates with references that are specific to Lancaster County, such as horse and buggy and “It’s putting down.” Other plates that he was drawn to were indicative of American culture, such as Ronald McDonald and Mickey Mouse.  Back in Rio, Bruno installed the 48 found objects onto the wall of his studio into a 6′ x 6′ arrangement. He then was careful to ensure that these iconic images remained viewable as he layered spray paint, oil paint, and paper-mâché on to the plates; all of which are materials and colors traditionally used in Rio de Janeiro Carnival. This fusing, or conversation, between cultures, offers a new story for the items that already bring their own “memories” to the piece. (Photo credit  Jaime Aciolo)

Bruno Miguel’s exhibit, artist talk and community reception have been made possible in part by a grant from the Lancaster County Community Foundation,