Série Terra Quente 2001

This is a piece from Graça Morais’s “Terra Quente” series. These works reflect the socio-economic struggles of the Trás-os-Montes region in Portugal, where she was born in 1942. Morais’s art provides a critical, yet affectionate perspective on rural life. The emotional heart of her work lies in its depiction of women's experiences in a patriarchal society. The artist has noted the way the bodies in her paintings carry signs of a harsh, difficult existence, but also express dignity and an intimate connection to the land. "Terra Quente" translates to "Hot Land," a term that evokes the physical and emotional climate of the region. Here, the warm tones contrast with the cool blues in an expressionistic style. These figures seem to emerge from the earth itself, bearing witness to a history of hardship and resilience. Morais’s painting serves as both a memorial and a celebration of a community rooted in its landscape.