Luiz Carvalho displays images from Portugal's post-revolution era in a fresh exhibition.
In the heart of Lisbon, the Sociedade Nacional de Belas Artes is currently hosting a captivating exhibition titled "50DE25", showcasing the iconic photographs of renowned photojournalist Luiz Carvalho. The exhibition, which runs until August 23, offers a unique insight into Portugal's Carnation Revolution and its aftermath, providing a powerful visual narrative that encapsulates the spirit of the era [1][3].
During the revolution in 1974, a 19-year-old Luiz Carvalho, an architecture student with a passion for photography, documented the transformation of Portugal from dictatorship to democracy. Armed with a Nikon F camera, he captured candid street scenes that vividly depict moments filled with hope, joy, and political change [1].
One of his most cherished images, taken on May 1, 1974, shows soldiers in a military lorry raising their rifles while civilians give the victory sign. This photograph, according to Carvalho, encapsulates the revolutionary spirit and is aesthetically perfect [1].
The exhibition pairs Carvalho’s historic black-and-white photos with more recent portraits of key figures involved in those events, offering a human connection to the revolutionary period. Carvalho's work began with the Carnation Revolution and continued through more than two decades of photojournalism, including work for Expresso weekly and SIPA Press [1].
The "50DE25" exhibition focuses on the period from the revolution on April 25, 1974, through the Ongoing Revolutionary Process (PREC) up to the failed coup of November 25, 1975. Among the images on display is a photograph of José Mário Branco, a significant figure during the revolution, whose portrait was used for the cover of the album "Ser Solidário" (1982). Another intriguing image captures a man wearing a T-shirt of Amílcar Cabral, the founder of the PAIGC, which was unusual given their opposing sides during the revolution [1].
Carvalho also captured a poignant image of a soldier lost among shadows on April 26, 1974, which he believes represents the end of the celebration or the beginning of uncertainty. His work with José Mário Branco, whom he worked with in the theatre, made a significant impression on him due to his humanity, independent thinking, and cultural prowess [1].
At the time of the arrival of the troopship from Guinea-Bissau, it was common for people to present themselves with exotic animals. Carvalho's photograph of this event is also part of the exhibition, offering a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse atmosphere of the time [1].
Luiz Carvalho is one of the biggest names in Portuguese photojournalism, and his work in "50DE25" provides a compelling visual account of a pivotal period in Portugal's history. The exhibition offers a poignant reflection on the Carnation Revolution and its impact, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the stories and moments that shaped modern Portugal [1][3].
[1] - https://www.portugalresident.com/luiz-carvalhos-50de25-exhibition-at-snba-in-lisbon/ [3] - https://www.snba.pt/en/exposicoes/50de25-luiz-carvalho-a-fotografia-da-revolution-de-25-de-abril/
In the same heart of Lisbon, one might find a tranquil haven where dramatic transformations are artistically portrayed through the lens of home-and-garden; however, the Sociedade Nacional de Belas Artes presents a captivating alternative. Instead of vibrant flora and pristine furniture, '50DE25' showcases Luiz Carvalho's lifestyle images, offering a captivating visual narrative of Portugal's home-and-garden scene during the Carnation Revolution.
