All eyes on us, 2021, Acrylic on Canvas - 50cmX50cm

Neto was born and raised in the periphery of Caucaia, Ceará—Northeastern Brazil. He graduated in Communication – Advertising from the Federal University of Ceará (2024). Despite his academic background in communication, he centered his studies on arts, developing several projects focused on art and the empowerment of the Afro-Latin American community, including his thesis, an illustrated book addressed to children about racial literacy.

Neto’s works have been exhibited across Fortaleza – Brazil, in institutions such as the Museu da Imagem e do Som (CE), Museu de Arte Contemporânea UFC (CE), and the Instituto de Cultura e Arte (CE). Additionally, he won an academic distinction for his outstanding academic journey and received multiple scholarships, grants, and awards. One of them was the first place at “Concours Francophonie Solidaire,” a national competition promoted by Alliance Française, with his work “Babel,” a portrait combined with Time-Based art.

As a visual artist, Neto explores Afro-Latin communities’ experiences, discussing the impact of colonial wounds and questioning Eurocentric visions. His paintings promote a positive outlook on Afro-Latin-American identity and show violence against these bodies. His works are innovative, using elements from his culture, allegories, and experimentation with video and technologies.

Artist Statement

I paint with color draw from the deepest parts of my soul while asking:

Who is allowed to love in this society? Who can rest? Who can enjoy a life of freedom? Who can celebrate their own way of existing in this world?

For the majority in the Global South, especially within the Afro Latin American community, some of these rights are denied. Knowing and being proud of one’s culture seems natural, but doesn’t happen in reality. Colonization and Eurocentric projects built a world based on their own experiences, pressuring others to imitate them.

Erasing memories.

Through my work, I aim to create visualities that celebrate Afro-Latin American experiences and challenge Eurocentric narratives in art history. My practice is profoundly influenced by the poetry within me and the historical and sociological dilemmas of my country, Brazil.

With canvas, murals, acrylics, oil, watercolor, video, or interactive technologies, I strive to celebrate the richness of Afro-Latin American community, creating new narratives and platforms that honor and uplift Latinx, Black, and Brown experiences. My art is a space where people can see themselves and recognize their histories and resilience.