Parangolé - Sergio Guerra

Parangolé: The Art of Hélio Oiticica

Hélio Oiticica was a Brazilian artist who is considered one of the most important figures in contemporary art. His work is characterized by its use of unconventional materials and its focus on the viewer's experience. Oiticica's most famous work is the Parangolé, a wearable art form that he created in the 1960s.

The Parangolé is a garment that is made from a variety of materials, including fabric, plastic, and metal. It is often brightly colored and has a sculptural quality. The Parangolé is designed to be worn by the viewer, who becomes a part of the artwork.

Oiticica believed that the Parangolé was a way to break down the barriers between art and life. He wanted to create an art form that would be accessible to everyone, regardless of their social or economic status. The Parangolé is a democratic art form that celebrates the individual.

The History of the Parangolé

The Parangolé was first created by Oiticica in 1964. He was inspired by the Brazilian Carnival, which is a time of year when people dress up in costumes and dance in the streets. Oiticica wanted to create an art form that would capture the spirit of the Carnival.

The Parangolé quickly became popular in Brazil. It was worn by artists, musicians, and other cultural figures. The Parangolé was also exhibited in galleries and museums around the world.

In the 1970s, Oiticica moved to New York City. He continued to create Parangolés, but he also began to experiment with other forms of art. He created sculptures, paintings, and installations.

Oiticica died in 1980 at the age of 42. He left behind a body of work that is considered to be some of the most important art of the 20th century.

The Parangolé Today

The Parangolé is still a popular art form today. It is worn by people all over the world, and it is exhibited in galleries and museums. The Parangolé is a reminder of Oiticica's vision of a democratic art form that celebrates the individual.

Why You Should Buy This Book

This book is a comprehensive overview of Oiticica's work. It includes essays by leading scholars on Oiticica, as well as a selection of Oiticica's own writings. The book is beautifully illustrated with photographs of Oiticica's work.

This book is a must-have for anyone interested in contemporary art. It is a valuable resource for scholars, artists, and anyone else who is interested in learning more about Oiticica and his work.

Conclusion

Hélio Oiticica was a brilliant artist who created a body of work that is still relevant today. The Parangolé is a powerful symbol of Oiticica's vision of a democratic art form that celebrates the individual. This book is a comprehensive overview of Oiticica's work and is a must-have for anyone interested in contemporary art.