O canal e a ponte 

Anita Malfatti created ‘O canal e a ponte’ during a pivotal period in Brazilian art history when artists were seeking to establish a distinctly modern identity. Malfatti, having studied abroad, brought avant-garde influences back to Brazil, challenging conservative academic traditions. Here, we see a landscape rendered with bold colors and expressive brushstrokes which reflect the influence of European Expressionism. The scene, depicting a canal and bridge, is likely a commentary on the rapidly changing urban landscape of Brazil at the time. The piece seems to capture a moment of transition from rural to urban. Note how the vibrant colors and loose handling of paint convey a sense of dynamism and energy. Malfatti once said that she sought to capture the “vibrancy” and “raw energy” of Brazilian life. Malfatti's work, including pieces like this one, stirred controversy for challenging conventional aesthetics. They sparked a cultural debate which ultimately paved the way for the emergence of Brazilian modernism, which sought to redefine Brazilian identity through art. 'O canal e a ponte' invites us to reflect on the ever-evolving relationship between tradition, modernity, and national identity, and the courage it takes to push boundaries.