The magic of the Baroque in Siza’s architecture. An exhibition at the Soares dos Reis National Museum – Arts

On September 12, 2024, the Museu Nacional Soares dos Reis, in Porto, opens its doors for a unique exhibition that promises to captivate architecture and art lovers. Under the title “Siza, Baroque Chamber”this exhibition delves into the nuances of the Baroque, revealing how this aesthetic movement profoundly influenced the work of the famous architect Alvaro Siza Vieira. On show will be open until December 31stproviding visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the relationship between Baroque and Modernity in Siza’s architecture.

“Siza, Câmara Barroca” is the result of a long and meticulous research project called “Siza Barroco”, coordinated by José Miguel Rodrigues and Joana Couceiro, both researchers at the Faculty of Architecture of the University of Porto (FAUP). The project, which was the first place in the Foundation’s competition for Science and Technology (FCT) in 2021, now culminates in this exhibition that brings together 18 works by Siza, covering different periods of his career, with a special focus on the 70s and 80s – the most intensely baroque years of his production.

What sets this exhibition apart is the way it allows visitors to perceive the “Idea of ​​Baroque” that permeates the architect’s work.. The works on display reflect the way in which the architect integrates the complexities of human life and the city into his creation, just as the Baroque masters did in their time. In each piece, it is possible to note the presence of themes such as repetition, anonymity, everyday life, and, simultaneously, exception and singularity – characteristics intrinsic to the Baroque city that Siza always pursued.

In addition to exploring Siza’s architecture, the exhibition takes the visitor through the permanent collections of the Soares dos Reis National Museum, creating a deep connection between the architect’s works and the museum’s rich historical heritage. This interaction between the ancient and the modern, the baroque and the contemporary, provides an enriching experience that transcends the simple viewing of architectural works, transforming it into a sensorial and reflective journey.

The exhibition “Siza, Baroque Chamber” will end in a memorable way on December 14thwith a concert at the Clérigos Church. The vocal group Olisipo will perform the “Magnificat in gilded wood”, a work by the contemporary composer Eurico Carrapatoso, who, like Siza, values ​​tradition over pure originality. This concert is not only a tribute to the Baroque, but also a reflection of the philosophy of both creators, who see continuity with the past as a way to innovate and enrich the present. Entry is free, subject to space availability.