The Trajectory of Patrícia Penteado in Contemporary Art

In this interview, we get to know Brazilian artist Patrícia, who has spent over 20 years developing her creative style. She talks about her journey, from learning to draw the human figure to mastering painting techniques like oils and acrylics. Patrícia also shares what inspires her, from the beauty of nature to the stories of people she meets, with a special focus on the strength of women in Brazilian legends. She also explains her creative process, how she deals with creative blocks, and how she knows when a piece is finally finished.

Patrícia began her journey in the visual arts in 1998, focusing on drawing the human figure and creativity at Atelier Spazio Arte e Genere in Bauru, São Paulo, Brazil. Over the years, she specialized in various techniques, including oil painting, acrylics, and encaustic, under the guidance of renowned artists. Throughout her 26-year career, Patrícia has participated in numerous art exhibitions in Brazil, Argentina, Spain, and Austria and various art salons in these countries. In 2023, she held two solo exhibitions: one in-person at the Centro Cultural USP-FOB in Bauru and another virtual exhibition at Eueartegallery. Her works, including drawings and paintings, are part of collections in Argentina, Spain, and Brazil institutions. The thematic focus of her work encompasses the human figure, emphasizing female representations, in addition to abstract and floral works. In particular, the female figure stands out in her art. Recently, an international jury selected and published her work for the Arts to Hearts project in the “101 Arts Books” – Floral Edition 2024. This recognition reinforces her relevance in the contemporary visual arts scene, highlighting her contribution to the representation of the female figure and related themes. Over the years, Patrícia has established herself as a versatile and recognized artist whose journey is marked by constantly pursuing new artistic expressions and active participation in art events.

1. What inspired you to become an artist?

Since childhood, art has been a part of my life. My mother was a painter, and her colours and brushstrokes ignited a passion that never faded in me. However, the encouragement I hoped for never came; for my family, art was just a hobby, something not taken seriously. Even so, I kept the dream of developing myself as an artist. I pursued dentistry and built a career in that field, but the flame of art never went out. Over the years, I continued to study painting on the side, dedicating my free time to honing my techniques. With time, I gained self-confidence and realized that my work had value. Finally, I decided to take the step I had always wanted: to become an artist and seek recognition for what I love to do. Today, I celebrate the courage to follow my dream and the beauty of expressing my worldview through art.

I am continuously captivated by the dynamic forms that nature offers – from the graceful curves to the vibrant hues that define botanicals.

_{Patricia Penteado}

2. What is your creative process like from start to finish?

“My artistic process begins with researching the theme I will develop, choosing the colour palette and techniques I will use. Choosing the support, whether canvas or paper. When the developed theme involves drawing, most of the time, I make sketches on paper, even being able to finalize them in this medium to have the idea concluded and transfer it later. I have used acrylic paints, oil, textures, collages, and canvas. I start by putting a background in acrylic, often with an abstract tendency, and then work on the theme with oil paint. If I am going to use textures, it is at this moment that I apply them.”

3. Where do you find inspiration for your artwork?

The inspiration for my art arises from a vibrant mosaic that makes up my daily life. The people who cross my path offer me stories and emotions that intertwine with my creations. Nature, with its splendour, is an inexhaustible source; the flowers, in their various shapes and colours, evoke deep feelings and poetic revelations within me. It is in this kaleidoscope of colours that I find the emotions that move me. Moreover, Brazilian legends, where women stand out as protagonists, enrich my artistic vision, bringing forth strength, beauty, and feminine complexity. Together, these influences make my art a reflection of the world around me, always in transformation and full of life.

4. How do you know when a piece of art is finished?

There are moments when I find myself facing a work of art that, for some reason, remains on pause. Sometimes, this pause stretches for months, even years. During this time, the piece rests in my studio, waiting for me to resume the dialogue we started. When I finally return to it, the feeling of reunion is one of reunion; a fresh perspective allows me to complete it and finally declare it finished. Other times, the creative flow is so intense that the work is completed quickly. In these cases, I feel an unwavering certainty that everything that needs to be communicated is already expressed. With every brushstroke or detail, I recognize that I have reached the point where there is nothing more to add. It is a special moment of clarity when the work is complete and ready to be presented to the world.

I strive to evoke a sense of wonder and appreciation for the everyday miracles that surround us. I believe there is profound value in cultivating a deeper connection with the world around us, and I hope that my art serves as a catalyst for this introspection, inspiring others to embrace the beauty that lies within the ordinary.

_{Patricia Penteado}

5. What do you hope people take away from experiencing your art?

Upon encountering my art, I hope people carry feelings of peace, joy, and inspiration. My most effective communication occurs through my work, where each stroke and colour extends my desire to connect with others. My goal is that by immersing themselves in my art experience, they find a space for reflection, transformation, and lightness. May the interaction with my works illuminate their days in some way and foster a genuine connection, reminding them of the beauty and emotion that life can offer.

Patrícia’s art is more than just painting on canvas; it reflects her life, experiences, and the stories that inspire her. Through her thoughtful approach to creativity and dedication to her craft, she hopes to bring moments of beauty and inspiration to everyone who experiences her work. Her art encourages us to see the extraordinary in the ordinary and appreciate life’s simple joys. To learn more about Patricia Penteado, visit the links below.