Alien Observer (2017) Sculpture by Luciano Mello Witkowski Pinto

Luciano Mello Witkowski Pinto is a contemporary Brazilian artist, embarked on a transformative artistic journey that spans the cultural landscapes of Italy and Brazil. In 1993, he set out for Italy, drawn by the allure of sculpture at The Fine Arts Academy of Brera in Milan. His sojourn in the heart of artistic tradition extended until 1999, a period during which he immersed himself in both traditional and modern ceramics.

It was during a pivotal journey in 1996 that Mello Witkowski Pinto encountered a profound connection with the culture of Brazilian indigenous communities and a deep appreciation for the wonders of nature. This encounter left an indelible mark on his artistic sensibilities, becoming a wellspring of inspiration that would shape the thematic undercurrents of his future work.

In 1999, Mello Witkowski Pinto sealed his connection with Italy by marrying the Italian painter Margherita Leoni. Despite returning to Brazil at the end of that year, he maintained a strong bond with Italy through continued voyages and exhibitions, weaving an intricate artistic dialogue between the two nations.

The hallmark of Mello Witkowski Pinto's artistic oeuvre lies in the representation of the denizens of Brazilian forests—indigenous peoples, mixed-race individuals, and caboclos - immersed in the tapestry of their everyday lives and customs. His work becomes a visual testimony to the vibrant cultural mosaic that defines Brazil, with a particular emphasis on preserving and sensitizing the essence of traditional cultures adapted to the tropics.

At the core of his artistic process is a commitment to studying and representing the various human physiognomies resulting from the intermingling of races - white, indigenous, black - that characterizes the diverse tapestry of the Brazilian people. Through his art, Mello Witkowski Pinto not only captures the physical diversity of his subjects but also seeks to illuminate the intricate threads of cultural intersection and coexistence that weave through the Brazilian identity.

Beyond the canvas, Mello Witkowski Pinto sees art as a powerful tool for sensitizing and safeguarding the marginalized voices of minor peoples, preserving their traditions in the face of evolving modernity. His work serves as a bridge between continents, a visual narrative that transcends borders, celebrating the beauty of diversity and the resilience of cultural heritage in the rich tapestry of Brazilian life.

• Nationality: BRAZIL
• Date of birth : 1972
• Artistic domains:
• Groups: Contemporary Brazilian Artists