Exhibition/event has ended.
Popular Woodcut Prints of Northeast Brazil
Ogu Mag
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Artists
José Francisco Borges (J. Borges) et al.
Discover the vibrant and soulful world of traditional woodcut prints from the heart of Northeast Brazil. This exhibition showcases a collection gathered directly from local workshops, depicting the essence of Brazilian life: nature, faith, labor, Carnival, and the daily struggles and joys of the people.
The popularity of folk art prints in Brazil continues to soar. At the center of this movement was José Francisco Borges (J. Borges). Born in 1935 in Bezerros, Pernambuco, J. Borges passed away in July 2024 at the age of 88. He remains a national treasure and a pivotal figure in Brazilian art alongside Ariano Suassuna.
A self-taught poet and printmaker, J. Borges attended school for only ten months as a child, working as a farmer, bricklayer, and carpenter before dedicating his life to his workshop, Memorial J. Borges. Today, his legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren.
This exhibition features works by J. Borges himself, along with several family members: his sons (Miguel, the late Manassés, Pablo, Bacaro), grandson Gustavo, brother Amaro Francisco, and other talented relatives.
The Evolution of Style
While traditionally printed in black and white, the 2000s saw a shift toward vibrant multi-color prints. Using incredible precision, these artists often print full-color scenes—reflecting the lush tropical nature of Brazil—using a single woodblock.
Beauty Born from Resilience
Though the prints may appear peaceful and idyllic, their roots lie in "suffering." The art is born from the harsh reality of life in the Sertão (the arid hinterlands). Look closely at the blazing suns and the expressions of the people; you will find a rich tapestry of social satire, faith, eroticism, dark humor, and Amor. These works represent the spiritual richness of the Brazilian people—finding hope and humor even in the most grueling conditions.
We invite you to experience this scorching, soulful world of folk art. Even in uncertain times, these prints from the sun-drenched lands of Brazil offer a glimmer of universal human hope.
The popularity of folk art prints in Brazil continues to soar. At the center of this movement was José Francisco Borges (J. Borges). Born in 1935 in Bezerros, Pernambuco, J. Borges passed away in July 2024 at the age of 88. He remains a national treasure and a pivotal figure in Brazilian art alongside Ariano Suassuna.
A self-taught poet and printmaker, J. Borges attended school for only ten months as a child, working as a farmer, bricklayer, and carpenter before dedicating his life to his workshop, Memorial J. Borges. Today, his legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren.
This exhibition features works by J. Borges himself, along with several family members: his sons (Miguel, the late Manassés, Pablo, Bacaro), grandson Gustavo, brother Amaro Francisco, and other talented relatives.
The Evolution of Style
While traditionally printed in black and white, the 2000s saw a shift toward vibrant multi-color prints. Using incredible precision, these artists often print full-color scenes—reflecting the lush tropical nature of Brazil—using a single woodblock.
Beauty Born from Resilience
Though the prints may appear peaceful and idyllic, their roots lie in "suffering." The art is born from the harsh reality of life in the Sertão (the arid hinterlands). Look closely at the blazing suns and the expressions of the people; you will find a rich tapestry of social satire, faith, eroticism, dark humor, and Amor. These works represent the spiritual richness of the Brazilian people—finding hope and humor even in the most grueling conditions.
We invite you to experience this scorching, soulful world of folk art. Even in uncertain times, these prints from the sun-drenched lands of Brazil offer a glimmer of universal human hope.
Schedule | Mar 19 (Thu) 2026-Mar 22 (Sun) 2026 Opening Hours Information
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| Fee | Free | ||||
| Website | https://ogumag.wixsite.com/schedule/single-post/brazilian-printing | ||||
| Venue | Ogu Mag http://www.ogumag.com/ | ||||
| Location | 4-24-7 Higashiogu, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo 116-0012 | ||||
| Access | 4 minute walk from the West exit of Akado-shougakkoumae Station on the Nippori Toneri liner, 8 minute walk from the North exit of Tabata Station on the JR Yamanote and Keihin-Tohoku lines. | ||||
| Phone | 080-5523-6604 | ||||
| Related images | Click on the image to enlarge it  |
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