Postais Coloniais (Colonial Postcards)
In the International Year of Glass, presenting this exhibition is of enormous importance for Marinha Grande and the Portuguese public. The artists will have works on display that were produced in various European glassmaking centers where they have already exhibited, with four of the pieces specifically designed for this exhibition at VICARTE - Glass and Ceramics for the Arts Research Unit, Nova University of Lisbon.
Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, the brothers Einar (1963) and Jamex (1960) De la Torre moved to a small community in California in the early 1970s. They began working together in the 1990s and currently live and work in the USA and Mexico.
The complexity of the migrant experience, as well as cultural characteristics of both countries, strongly influence the narrative and aesthetics of their art. The De La Torres’ highly impressive works clearly reflect both their origins and differences in North American and Mexican identity.
Combining blown glass pieces with mixed media and artistic installations, their works address topics as vast and current as the identity of peoples, globalization and capitalism. The De La Torres’ work abounds in references to Mexican stories and traditions, religious and sexual allusions.
Contemporary Art Center (NAC) of the Glass Museum
Museu do Vidro (Museum of Glass), located in Marinha Grande, is the only museum in Portugal dedicated to glass art, craftsmanship, and the glass industry. Its collections trace the evolution of glassmaking from the 17th century to the present.
Opened in 1998, the museum is housed in the former palace of the Stephens brothers, part of the historic Real Fábrica de Vidros da Marinha Grande, a key driver of the region’s development. The museum also includes the NAC – Núcleo de Arte Contemporânea, which showcases contemporary Portuguese and international artists and promotes innovation in glass.
Marinha Grande, Portugal
Einar and Jamex de la Torre: Colonial Postcards
October 22, 2022 to September 30, 2023
