Photo: Ramon Vellasco
For twenty years, Automatica has drawn on its solid theoretical and practical knowledge of cultural institutions and their operations to collaborate with other players in the contemporary art world. Over these two decades, increased government promotion of the arts in Brazil has helped to create a professional environment conducive to experimentation and artistic expression. The company has established a robust ethical framework for working with artists and other professionals in the field. Its raison d’être is to serve these individuals by providing spaces and resources that enable them to bring their ideas to fruition. Stable and long-lasting partnerships form the cornerstone of Automatica’s work, allowing it to build networks that connect artists, institutions, and the community. This structure is essential for ensuring that projects have a lasting impact, promoting art that has long-term relevance as an integral part of daily life.
Photo: Gabi Carrera
One of Automatica’s most notable achievements is the creation of the Arte Bra collection of physical and digital books that celebrate the rich diversity of Brazilian art. This collection not only enriches the country’s repository of cultural artefacts, but has also served as a starting point for the creation of a publishing company dedicated to producing and promoting works that foster critical reflection in the field of contemporary art.
Another highlight is the creation of two residencies: BeloJardim and RASP. These provide an environment conducive to the collective production of art, sharing experiences and including a diverse range of voices and bodies in the arts and culture. The residencies demonstrate Automatica’s commitment to investing in the professional development of artists and promoting art that plays a meaningful role within the local community where it is produced.
Since 2011, Automatica, in conjunction with the Free Art School (ELA), has expanded its activities beyond exhibitions by developing the Bela Maré project—a cultural and educational Favela Observatory center that provides accessible and inclusive art lessons for artists from underprivileged areas. This project not only produces innovative works of art, but also creates a space for educating new audiences, thereby strengthening local culture.
In times of significant challenges and great volatility in the art world, Automatica is more than just a production company. Its mission is to provide a vibrant setting for artistic creation and reflection, and to build a fairer, more diverse, inclusive, and culturally enriched society through art.