Great Artists on Campus #5 João Penalva

Universidade Lusófona – Centro Universitário Lisboa hosted, on April 14, the fifth edition of the Great Artists on Campus conference series, this time dedicated to the artist João Penalva.

Internationally recognised for his work in the visual arts, João Penalva delivered a presentation focused on the evolution of his artistic practice, marked by the exploration of the relationship between image, text, sound, and memory. The artist also discussed the use of archival materials, documents, and found objects in the construction of narratives that blur the boundaries between reality and fiction.

Before dedicating himself to the visual arts, João Penalva was involved in the world of contemporary dance, having worked with Pina Bausch. He later settled in London, where he further developed his artistic education at the Chelsea School of Art with support from the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation.

Throughout the session, some of the most significant moments of his career were also highlighted, including representing Portugal at the São Paulo and Venice Biennales, as well as international distinctions such as the DAAD Berlin residency and the Paul Hamlyn Foundation Award.

The conference concluded with a question-and-answer session, allowing the audience to further explore the creative processes and references that shape the artist’s work.

View Event Photos on ULusófona’s Facebook Page

Text
Sara Serrano

Photography
Mariana Lourenço