The sea takes centre stage in this exhibition - but through the eyes of the Vigia (lookout). After all, the forts and their watchpoints have long kept a careful gaze over the ocean and its ever-shifting relationship with the sky, always fixed on that elusive horizon where the two become one.
That’s the perspective offered in Vigia, an art show running from May 24th to June 1st at Forte de Santo António da Barra in São João do Estoril. Featuring works by Alain Richard, Xana Nunes and Sofia Barros - who also serves as the exhibition’s artistic director - the show brings together personal reflections on what the sea means to each artist.
“At a time when the oceans are taking on an increasingly prominent role in public discourse, we felt it was important to bring art - in all its forms and expressions - into the conversation,” says Sofia Barros in a statement. “It is often through art that we awaken the senses and our awareness of the world around us. It can also be a pedagogical and activist way of engaging with life.”
According to the artist collective, this is also a “crucial moment” to turn our attention to the sea - following the release of David Attenborough’s latest documentary, which focuses on the oceans, and a poignant letter from Pope Francis, written just days before his passing, in which he issued a powerful call for greater awareness around climate change and environmental protection. In fact, Sofia Barros dedicates one of her pieces in the exhibition to Pope Francis.
Forte de Santo António da Barra, Avenida Marginal 73, Estoril. May 24th–June 1st, 12.00–18.00. Free entry. 21 464 6140