Alfredo Volpi

Born in Lucca, Italy, and raised in São Paulo, Brazil, artist Alfredo Volpi (1896–1988) is known for his colorful patterned paintings featuring windows, doors, squares and flags. Responding to the societal transformation of the 20th century, his work combines modernity, tradition and popular motifs. Volpi drew inspiration from the vernacular architecture of São Paulo; European avant-gardes including Matisse, Mondrian and Albers; and Italian artists such as Uccello, Carrà and Morandi. This richly illustrated publication allows for a fresh discovery of Volpi’s works, which are products of a methodical and meditative process, and characterized by his two-dimensional geometric patterns and the use of color as a structural element. The corresponding exhibition also celebrates the 150th anniversary of Italian immigration to Brazil, highlighting the influence of Italian cultures on Brazilian artistic language, while recognizing Volpi as a superb colorist and master craftsman.

Italian-Brazilian artist Alfredo Volpi (1896–1988) was a central figure of Brazilian art in the 20th century. His painting is influenced by both modern and customary traditions, including handcraft, popular parties, religious themes and the facades of Brazilian colonial and vernacular architecture.

Published for the first retrospective outside Brazil of the Italian-born artist, held at the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco, this book sheds light on Brazilian modernist painter Alfredo Volpi (1896–1988), offering a thorough exploration in words and images of the painter’s peculiar life and career—from the bounds and relationships with the Brazilian art community to his special link to the city of São Paulo and his adopted country, leading to the development of his unique artistic language.