Conversation with Maria Tomaselli about her life and art at Pensando Bem

Aldeia Global

Introduction to Pensando Bem [00:00] [Image 2 [0:00]]

• Nando Gross and Juremir Machado host "Pensando Bem" on FM Cultura and Aldeia Global YouTube channel.
• The program features Maria Tomaselli, a plastic artist and writer, as a guest [Image 1 [0:00]].
• Tomaselli immediately engages by asking about the meaning of "pod" in podcast and praising the studio table's wood [Image 15 [0:08]].
• Laughter and lively discussion among the hosts and guest [Image 30 [0:16]].

Artistic Inspiration and Process [01:01]

• The Beauty of Imperfection: Maria Tomaselli appreciates the natural imperfections in wood, relating it to the "flaws" in her art [Image 31 [0:17]].
  • She values the texture and small cracks in the table's wood, viewing them as beautiful.
  • Tomaselli created a large series using old, ripped cotton truck canvases.
    • She found beauty in the patched-up tears, with the sewing machine lines forming unique designs.
    • This concept reflects how wounds can leave permanent marks that also possess a certain beauty.
• Art and the Viewer's Mind: A psychiatrist client requested a painting without human figures or many colors.
  • The psychiatrist wanted art that promotes rest and tranquility, avoiding excitement.
  • Tomaselli created a piece that highlighted a single "patch" or mended wound, emphasizing its inherent beauty.
    • She believes that art should either stimulate or provide rest, aligning with the psychiatrist's request for a calming visual.

Maria Tomaselli's Journey to Brazil [03:00]

• Arrival in Porto Alegre: Tomaselli, an Austrian artist, arrived in Rio Grande do Sul in 1965.
  • She explains her move was due to being "kidnapped by a Gaucho" (Carlos Roberto Cirne Lima).
  • Her only reference for Porto Alegre was a black and white postcard of the bridge, inaugurated around that time.
    • Another postcard featured the Praça da Matriz.
• Relationship with Carlos Roberto Cirne Lima: Tomaselli married Carlos Roberto Cirne Lima, a great philosopher and professor.
  • His father had requested the Pope's intercession for Carlos to marry Maria, as he was a Jesuit.
  • This request was eventually granted, making their marriage religiously and civilly recognized.
• Life During the Dictatorship: Arriving in 1965, during the early days of the military dictatorship, was a challenging and emotionally charged experience [Image 13 [0:07]].
  • Her father-in-law's house was constantly filled with politicians amidst an atmosphere of smoke and political campaigning.
  • Carlos lost his teaching position at the university due to indirect elections and the political climate.
    • He could not teach even in kindergarten, leading them to move to São Paulo.
• Professional Adjustments and Continued Art: In São Paulo, Carlos became a director at a soluble coffee factory.
  • He had to learn everything about coffee, including tasting methods.
  • Maria notes that Carlos eventually returned to academia, teaching at UFRGS and later at Unisinos.
    • Unisinos later granted him an emeritus title, which was significant for a former Jesuit.
    • Maria is currently making a documentary about Carlos's philosophy, incorporating videos she filmed of him [Image 68 [0:35]].

State of the Arts and Cultural Commentary [23:36]

• Art Criticism and Media Coverage: Maria Tomaselli observes a decline in serious art criticism and media space for arts [Image 75 [0:39]].
  • She contrasts this with past times when newspapers dedicated entire sections to cultural events and exhibitions.
  • Journalists today focus on provided press releases rather than in-depth critical analysis.
• Comparison with European Arts Scene: In Austria, art events still receive extensive media coverage, with critics actively engaging with artists.
  • She reminisces about encountering famous critics like Comas, whom she was too shy to approach directly.
• Artist's Perspective on Authenticity: Tomaselli believes that true art comes from genuine experiences and challenges [Image 174 [1:28]].
  • She criticizes the over-glorification of artists for their personal struggles rather than their artistic merit.
  • This leads to a loss of focus on the art itself, as galleries prioritize hype over substance.
• Critique of the Iberê Camargo Foundation: Tomaselli expresses strong indignation towards the Iberê Camargo Foundation.
  • She believes the foundation overemphasizes Iberê Camargo while neglecting other equally talented artists.
  • She highlights the courage of the foundation's rector, Marcelo Daqui, who supports the introduction of doctorates in philosophy.
  • Tomaselli mentions the historical richness of Porto Alegre's arts scene, with numerous galleries and active artists in the 1970s and 80s.
• The Art Market and Democratization of Art: The discussion moves to the challenges faced by emerging artists in the current art market.
  • Tomaselli laments the lack of platforms for new artists to showcase their work, contrasting it with the past prevalence of art salons.
  • She notes the shift towards digital platforms, but questions their effectiveness in fostering true artistic development.
• Personal Reflections and Future Plans: Tomaselli remains active in her art, with plans for upcoming exhibitions and projects.
  • She shares anecdotes about her interactions with various artists and cultural figures, emphasizing the richness of her experiences.
  • Despite her age, she remains passionate about her work and continues to seek new ways to express herself through art.