A New Cultural Hub in Lisbon
In a bold move against the current trends, a new art gallery has opened its doors in Lisbon's Baixa district. Located at Rua da Prata, 176, this space is a replica of the ZET gallery in Braga, initiated by the construction group dst (Domingos da Silva Teixeira). The gallery's philosophy centers on "culture at the center", aiming to make art accessible to all.
Inaugural Exhibition by Alfredo Cunha
The gallery kicked off with its first exhibition, "Cartography of Desire" by renowned photographer Alfredo Cunha. Known for his iconic work during the 25th of April revolution, Cunha is now exploring more conceptual themes, focusing on the body, nudity, and intimacy. This exhibition marks his shift away from journalism, which he attributes to a disenchantment with the current state of journalism.
Democratizing Art with Free Access
Helena Mendes Pereira, the director and curator, emphasized that the gallery will host six exhibitions annually, all free of charge. The goal is to democratize access to art and promote cultural literacy, especially among those not typically engaged with the art scene. Exhibitions will feature a diverse range of artists, including Sara Maia from the Azores and Mariana Pimentel from Brazil, highlighting a commitment to showcasing talent from outside Lisbon's mainstream market.
Events and Community Engagement
Beyond exhibitions, the gallery plans to hold artist talks and other events to foster dialogue. José Teixeira, president of dstgroup, described the initiative as a return to the essence of small galleries that historically brought transformative art to city dwellers and visitors. He stated, "Without an idea of beauty, business breaks down", underscoring the group's belief in art's instrumental role in society.
Alfredo Cunha's Personal Journey
At 72, Cunha reflects on his career, saying, "I photographed everything and only now am I ready to start". His current work involves collaborations with friends and personal connections, blending new photographs with archival material to create a intimate and evolving narrative.
Alfredo Cunha | ZET, Lisboa
ZET, Lisboa
Alfredo Cunha - 'Cartography of Desire'
Alfredo Cunha - 'Cartography of Desire'
The gallery is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 18:00, with "Cartography of Desire" running until December 2. Admission is free, inviting everyone to experience contemporary art in the heart of Lisbon.
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