Dino D’Santiago, one of the most influential voices in contemporary Lusophone culture, is preparing to take his narrative from the stage to the walls of the Underdogs Gallery: from January 23rd, this gallery in Marvila will host the exhibition “Portal do Retorno”, an in-depth and unprecedented foray by the artist into the visual arts.
Far from being just an exhibition of paintings, this project is an “act of disobedience to the chronology of pain”, in the author’s own words. It is an invitation to look at the past without the weight of trauma, but with the strength of recognition.
Color as a territory of power
The exhibition is made up of 30 original works created on paper and cardboard, revealing contrast as the main tool: vibrantly colored backgrounds are given the black stroke of China ink.
This aesthetic choice is not random; Dino D’Santiago reframes the concept of “person of color”, elevating it to a place of plurality and affirmative presence.
The most striking technical detail is the continuous stroke. By drawing without interruption, the artist symbolizes the continuity of lives and lineages which, although historically the target of prejudice, refuse to be erased.
This exhibition proposes the opposite movement. An act of disobedience to the chronology of pain. The symbolic opening of the Portal of Return,” says Dino D’Santiago.
50 years of independence and the transatlantic bond
The genesis of this collection is intrinsically linked to the celebrations of the 50 years of independence of Angola, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique and São Tomé and Príncipe.
Through his art, Dino explores the memory of the transatlantic traffic, not as an end, but as a starting point for spiritual and cultural emancipation.
For enthusiasts who want to take a piece of this “Portal” home with them, the gallery will be launching a limited edition screen print.
Address: Rua Fernando Palha 56 (Underdogs Gallery, in Marvila)
Opening hours: from January 23 to March 28, Tuesday to Saturday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. (opening on January 23, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.)
Tickets: free
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