Manuel Pereira da Silva work is characterized by an abstract
formal orientation inspired by the human figure, mainly men and women. The
artist explored two distinct orientations in his aesthetic purposes. The first
includes pieces conceived in the academic tradition of the European 19th
century, usually in response to specific commissions. The second category of
works maintains the human figure as an essential reference, but distances
itself from naturalistic representation, adopting formal criteria of abstraction.
This abstract approach was one of the ways in which modernism reached pure
abstraction, where forms do not evidence or do not have a real figurative
referent.
Manuel Pereira da Silva was one of the pioneers of sculptural
abstractionism in Portugal. His modernist work emerged in the early years of
this movement in the country. He was part of the "independent"
exhibitions, which played a key role in disseminating Portuguese abstract art.
Through these exhibitions, Manuel Pereira da Silva and other artists such as
Júlio Resende, Fernando Fernandes, Nadir Afonso, Arlindo Rocha and Mário Truta,
among others, sought to break with established conventions and explore new
forms of artistic expression.
In addition, Manuel Pereira da Silva work also extended to
other areas, such as mural decoration and the integration of sculpture into
buildings. He collaborated with architects, such as Carlos Neves, in the
creation of murals and decorations in several cities, including Porto and the
African territories colonized by Portugal. His works reflected the influences
of the modern movement, which sought a more complete integration between
architecture, art and design.
In the social context, Manuel Pereira da Silva was also an
active and generous intervenor. He held important positions in the community,
such as President of the City Council of Avintes, and contributed with his
artistic work to various associations and civic movements in Avintes and nearby
regions. His performance was recognized with honors, such as the Medal of Honor
of the City Assembly of Avintes and the Gold Medal of Cultural Merit of the
Municipality of Vila Nova de Gaia.
In summary, the work of Manuel Pereira da Silva represents a
fusion between abstraction and human figuration, exploring geometric shapes and
abstract formal criteria. His work was influenced by the artistic vanguards of
the time and contributed to artistic renewal in Portugal. In addition, his role
as a social worker demonstrates his commitment to the community and his
generosity in sharing his artistic talent for the collective benefit.
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