II Exhibition of Modern Art of
Viana do Castelo held by the Regional Museum of Viana do Castelo, in September
1959, this exhibition was open to the public in the following cities, in
Coimbra, organized by the Academic Association Circle of Plastic Arts, in
December 1959. and Caldas da Rainha, organized by the Caldense Scenic Ensemble,
in January 1960, sponsored by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, planned and
organized by Dr. Manuel de Sousa Oliveira.
Art even when it seems far
removed from life is always its reflection, not in the sense of imitation, as
the Aristotelian definition has been misinterpreted, but in the source of
expressive creation.
This exhibition of modern
Portuguese artists, despite the energetic care of their organization, cannot,
of course, give the full picture of our art. However, it worthily illustrates
the transformation that has taken place, especially in the last decade, into
the European success of our step. And it will certainly have provided
interested visitors with familiarizing themselves with not only the
characteristic aspects of today's art but also some of the most representative
names in the new ranks of Lisbon and Porto. Manuel Pereira da Silva is one of
37 artists present, with two sculptures and two paintings.
