Dalton Paula develops intimate, powerful portraits that reimagine Afro-Brazilian histories often overlooked in mainstream narratives. His work centers on figures from Brazil's colonial and post-colonial periods, including enslaved individuals, indigenous people, and those involved in anti-slavery resistance. By portraying these subjects in traditional attire and settings, Paula challenges historical erasure and restores visibility to Black identities in Brazilian art and history. Working primarily with oil paint, gold leaf, and mixed media, Paula’s portraits are characterized by rich textures, precise brushwork, and symbolic elements. The use of gold leaf often emphasizes the head, reflecting its sacred significance in Afro-Brazilian culture and signaling the dignity and spiritual presence of his subjects. His compositions frequently employ a frontal, direct gaze and simplified forms, creating a sense of solemnity, contemplation, and quiet authority. Paula’s practice bridges historical representation and contemporary expression. By blending historical research with painterly interpretation, his work honors ancestry while inviting viewers to engage with questions of identity, memory, and resilience. Each portrait serves as a meditation on visibility, collective memory, and the ongoing impact of Brazil’s complex cultural history. ...
