René Portocarrero facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
René Portocarrero
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| Born | February 24, 1912 Havana, Cuba
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| Died | April 7, 1985 (aged 73) Havana, Cuba
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| Nationality | Cuban |
| Occupation | Artist |
René Portocarrero (born February 24, 1912, in Havana, Cuba; died April 7, 1985, in Havana) was a famous Cuban artist. He was known around the world for his amazing artworks.
Contents
Early Life and Art Journey
René Portocarrero started learning art at the San Alejandro academy. But he left early and mostly taught himself. This is why he is often called a 'self-taught' artist.
His first art show was in 1934 in Havana. This was the start of a long and successful career. He even worked with another artist, Mariano Rodríguez, in 1937. René also taught painting and sculpture to other students.
Traveling and International Shows
René traveled to many places like Haiti, Europe, and the United States. His first art show for people outside Cuba was in New York City in 1945. It was held at Julien Levy's gallery.
In the 1950s, he worked with other important Cuban artists. These included Wifredo Lam and Amelia Peláez. Later, in 1961, he met with Fidel Castro to talk about culture.
René's Artworks
René Portocarrero was a very talented artist. He was not just a painter and sculptor. He also worked with ceramics, designed sets for plays, and illustrated books.
He even published his own books with his drawings. These included Las Máscaras (The Masks) in 1935 and El Sueño (The Dream) in 1939.
Public Art and Murals
René also created large artworks called murals for public places. You can find his murals in the Havana Prison and a church in Bauta, Cuba. He also made art for the Cuban National Hospital and the Cuban National Theatre. One of his famous murals is at the Habana Hilton.
Where to See His Art
René Portocarrero's artworks are in many famous art galleries. You can see his paintings in museums in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, and France. His art is also in museums in Peru, the United States, Uruguay, and Venezuela. Of course, many of his works are in Cuba's own National Museum in Havana.
Awards and Recognition
René Portocarrero received many important awards during his life. In 1963, he won 'best collection' at the São Paulo Art Biennial. This is a big art event.
He was also honored by the governments of Bulgaria and Poland. He even became a member of UNESCO's International Association of Fine Art.
In 1981, Cuba gave him the 'Felix Varela' prize. The next year, in 1982, he received the 'Aztec Eagle'. This is Mexico's highest award. You can see some of his paintings online at www.vanguardiacubana.com.
See also
In Spanish: René Portocarrero para niños
