Hélio Menezes Appointed Director Of São Paulo’s Museu Afro Brasil
A New Chapter Begins
São Paulo’s Museu Afro Brasil, a beacon of Black-made art and culture, ushers in a transformative era under the guidance of Hélio Menezes. Taking the helm as the new director, Menezes steps into the shoes of the late founder, Emanoel Araujo, whose legacy now permeates the museum’s very name.
A Storied Institution
Nestled in the modernist expanse of Ibirapuera Park, the Museu Afro Brasil stands as a custodian of a vast and vibrant collection. With over six thousand works spanning from the fifteenth century to the contemporary era, the museum celebrates the ingenuity of self-taught artists and the depth of folk and religious traditions.
Menezes’ Vision
Menezes, whose expertise as a curator and anthropologist is well-recognized, aims to infuse the museum’s programming with a fresh, contemporary edge. His tenure as a co-curator of the latest Bienal de São Paulo, alongside luminaries like Grada Kalomba, Manuel Borja-Villel, and Diane Lima, underscores his commitment to elevating the museum’s profile on both a national and international stage.
Reflecting on his appointment, Menezes shares a personal connection to the museum that dates back to 2005. He describes his initial visit as a pivotal moment, one that sparked a lasting engagement through scientific research, academic pursuits, and a deep-seated appreciation for the museum’s dynamic and transformative spirit.
A Tribute to Change and Legacy
Menezes embraces the principle of change as the museum’s greatest legacy, a sentiment echoed by the institution’s continual evolution. He draws inspiration from Brazilian musician Gilberto Gil, finding resonance in the idea that true appreciation comes from understanding and valuing one’s roots and the rich tapestry of culture they represent.
A Rich Curatorial Background
Before stepping into his new role, Menezes contributed significantly to the cultural landscape as a curator at Centro Cultural São Paulo and through his work on the Carolina Maria de Jesus survey at Instituto Moreira Salles. His co-curation of the Afro-Atlantic Histories exhibition in 2018, which explored Black-Brazilian culture through over 450 works, further solidifies his reputation as a visionary in the field.
Looking Forward
As Menezes takes the reins of Museu Afro Brasil, his journey is more than a new chapter for the museum; it’s a continuation of a deep-seated commitment to celebrating and exploring the complexities of Black-Brazilian art and culture. The future under his direction promises to be as vibrant and transformative as the legacies he aims to honor and build upon.
