Unveiling a lesser-known chapter in Brazil’s history, the documentary “Art of Diplomacy,” co-produced by filmmaker Celina Borges Torrealba Carpi, explores how art became a diplomatic tool during World War II, showcasing Brazil’s cultural solidarity with the Allied forces.
Directed by Zeca Brito and produced by Donna Features—Torrealba’s production company—the film first premiered in late 2023. It chronicles how, during the heat of WWII, Brazil sent over 160 modernist paintings to the United Kingdom, a gesture of cultural resistance against the rising tide of fascism in Europe. This collection of artworks, donated by 70 of Brazil’s most prominent artists, was not only a display of cultural pride but also a powerful symbol of unity in the fight against totalitarian regimes.
Who is Celina Borges Torrealba Carpi?
At the heart of this cinematic endeavor is Celina Torrealba, a Brazilian filmmaker known for her dedication to exploring the intersection of cultural heritage, memory, and identity. Celina’s journey into filmmaking began with a deeply personal project, “Cheiro de Vida”, which looks into her Chilean grandfather’s story, reflecting on the influence of ancestry on modern life. This exploration of roots, both personal and collective, has since become a hallmark of her work.
In 2016, Torrealba co-founded Donna Features with producer Sergio Carpi. The company’s mission is to explore stories with a focus on the feminine, celebrating resilience and the poetic beauty found within cultural narratives. Donna Features has since made a name for itself in the international film community, working on projects that push boundaries and spark dialogue.
Beyond documentaries, Donna Features has also been involved as an associate producer for international feature films, including Olivier Assayas’s “Wasp Network – Prisoners of the Cold War” (2019) and “The Lighthouse” (2018), in partnership with the prestigious studio A24. With an impressive portfolio, Donna Features continues to champion stories that blend the poetic with the political, emphasizing narratives that highlight the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
A Closer Look at “Art of Diplomacy”
“Art of Diplomacy” is not your typical historical documentary—it’s an intricate exploration of how Brazil used art as a soft-power strategy during one of the darkest periods of the 20th century. The film investigates the 1944 initiative led by Brazilian artists and supported by the influential Oswaldo Aranha, to send a collection of modernist paintings to London. This cultural exchange was much more than a symbolic gesture; it was Brazil’s way of aligning itself with the Allied powers and affirming its stance against fascism.
Celina Torrealba’s involvement in the project underscores her commitment to storytelling that intertwines history, art, and politics. By shining a light on this remarkable but often overlooked moment in Brazil’s past, the film emphasizes how cultural diplomacy can transcend borders and unite people in times of crisis.
The documentary features insights from historians, art critics, and descendants of the artists who contributed to the London exhibition, offering a nuanced view of how Brazilian modernism challenged the status quo. Among the interviewees are art critic Aracy Amaral, historian Anita Leocádia Benário Prestes, and painter Luis Aquila. Their perspectives add layers of context to the film, highlighting the enduring impact of the 1944 exhibition on Brazil’s international cultural presence.
Modernism in Brazil: Art as a Tool for Resistance
To fully appreciate the impact of “Art of Diplomacy,” it’s essential to understand the evolution of the Brazilian modernist movement. Modernism in Brazil was a revolutionary force, breaking free from colonial artistic conventions and drawing inspiration from European avant-garde movements like cubism, surrealism, and expressionism. The movement took off in 1922 with São Paulo’s Modern Art Week, which became a catalyst for change, bringing together artists like Tarsila do Amaral and Di Cavalcanti to challenge the status quo.
By the late 1930s, Brazil was a nation grappling with internal strife and the rise of authoritarianism under Getúlio Vargas. The country’s embrace of modernist art wasn’t merely an aesthetic choice; it was a political statement, a call for social reform, and a celebration of national identity. During WWII, this art movement became an unexpected but potent weapon in the fight against fascism.
Art Meets Diplomacy: The Story Behind the 1944 London Exhibition
As World War II ravaged Europe, Brazil found a unique way to contribute to the war effort through its cultural assets. In 1944, amidst the bombings and chaos of wartime London, Brazil sent a collection of modernist paintings to the Royal Academy of Arts. This bold move was spearheaded by Oswaldo Aranha, who saw the potential of art to strengthen Brazil’s diplomatic ties with the Allies.
The film “Art of Diplomacy” highlights how this shipment of paintings was more than just a cultural gesture—it was a strategic act of defiance against Nazi fascism. Art historian Clara Marques, featured in the documentary, notes how the exhibition sent a clear message to the Axis powers by showcasing the very kind of art that Hitler’s regime sought to suppress.
Amid the air raids and wartime blackouts, the exhibition was a triumph. It drew over 100,000 visitors, including Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret. For many in Britain, this was their first exposure to Brazilian art, making the exhibition a milestone in Brazil’s cultural history.
Donna Features: Continuing the Legacy of Storytelling
Celina Torrealba’s passion for storytelling doesn’t stop with “Art of Diplomacy.” Under her guidance, Donna Features continues to push forward with new projects that explore the complexity of human experiences.
One of the most anticipated upcoming films, “Questions of Faith” inquires the life of a Congolese priest who educates Brazilian communities on their African heritage, bridging the gap between past and present. Additionally, Celina is working on a documentary about Squel Jorgea, a celebrated figure from the samba school Portela, exploring how Afro-Brazilian roots have influenced the cultural expression of Carnaval.
Celina Torrealba’s Vision: Connecting Past and Present
Celina’s films aren’t just documentaries—they are profound explorations of how the past informs the present. Her focus on ancestry, collective memory, and cultural identity aims to create a dialogue that goes beyond the screen. In her work, she emphasizes that understanding our roots is crucial to navigating the complexities of contemporary life.
Through Donna Features, Celina is dedicated to producing films that challenge audiences to reflect on their own histories, identities, and the connections that bind us all. Her commitment to exploring cultural narratives enriches not only Brazilian cinema but also contributes to a broader global conversation about who we are and where we come from.
“Art of Diplomacy” stands as a testament to Celina Torrealba’s vision—showing how art can be a powerful tool in shaping the world, especially during times of conflict. By bringing these hidden stories to light, Celina invites viewers to reflect on the enduring power of creativity as a force for change.
