An Artistic Intervention Dedicated to Dona Leopoldina
3 Permanent Photographic Wall Exposures in Brasília, Brazil. Realized in December 2022 at the following locations:
- Espaço Cultural Renato Russo
- Bibliotheca Demonstrative do Brasil
- Entrance Hall of the Austrian Embassy in Brasília
On the occasion of the bicentennial of Brazilian Independence in 2022, a portrait of Dona Leopoldina—the Vienna-born Habsburg archduchess and later Empress of Brazil—was created at each of these three sites. In 1822, Dona Leopoldina played a decisive role in laying the foundations for independence, for which she is still revered in Brazil today.
During her short life, her aristocratic opportunities and innate curiosity allowed her to acquire the era’s foremost expertise in mineralogy and botany. She researched and collected extensively, as did the delegation of scientists (including Johann Natterer and Johann Pohl) and painters (such as Thomas Ender) who accompanied her to Brazil.
In these three portraits of Dona Leopoldina, a delicate web of leaf veins partially overlays her face; in one of the images, it bisects her countenance. On one hand, this refers to her affinity for the natural sciences and the beginning of systematic research into Brazil’s flora and fauna during that period. On the other, it reflects Leopoldina’s inner turmoil—her homesickness juxtaposed with her love for Brazil—as well as the enduring negative impacts of colonialism and the inequalities within Brazilian society that persist to this day.
- Espaço Cultural Renato Russo
A temporary darkroom was specially constructed for the production and removed upon completion. The Espaço Cultural Renato Russo is a public art space managed by the municipality of Brasília; the venue itself is vibrantly utilized for dance, workshops, readings, concerts, and exhibitions. The building once served as an industrial hall for automobile production. The connection between a public, democratic space and the portrait of an empress from Brazilian history finds expression here, resulting in an image with a raw and wild appearance. In this work, the network of leaf veins divides the face into equal parts, reflecting Leopoldina’s inner turmoil, while simultaneously serving as a reference to the positive and negative consequences of the natural science expeditions.
2. Bibliotheca Demonstrativa do Brasil
This library is a federal institution, supported by the Brazilian federal government. The image spans the entire height of the auditorium wall—a space used for lectures and film screenings—where it has developed a raw and painterly appearance. The concept behind exposing the portrait of Dona Leopoldina within the library lies in her profound interest in science and her dedication to natural history studies and research—resources that this very library provides. The quote featured in the image, „Eu troco minha pele e me torno Brasileira – I am shedding my skin and becoming Brazilian,“ is taken from her extensive correspondence with her sister in Europe. The library serves as a vibrant, publicly utilized space.
3. Austrian Embassy in Brasília / Brazil
This portrait serves as a contribution to the historical connection between Austria and Brazil. For this location, the work is presented as a wall panel, hanging in the embassy’s entrance hall. It is an accurate, sober-looking image—almost reminiscent of the official paintings and photographs of noble families—yet the accompanying quote may cause a sense of irritation or intrigue.