Naufrágio da nauda 'Companhia das Indias'

The presence of history is inescapable in Adriana Varejão's work. Drawing together elements that symbolize the colonial conquest of the New World her work is a direct response to, and result of, European exploration and conquest. Frequently utilizing the azulejos (tiles) so typical to eighteenth century Portugal and thus Brazil, she constructs critiques of the "glories" of colonization, often depicting missionaries, the slave trade, and political rebellion. Yet her work is not static nor historic musing, but is a result of these past events and social critique is only feasable when taking account of the past.

The New World, Brazil in particular, is a composite of traditions. Portugal's Empire not only included part of the Americas but also parts of Asia and Africa as well and the lines of transmission were not unidirectional ending in Portugal but interconnected resulting in hybrid's throughout the Empire. Varejão's piece, Naufragio da nauda 'Companhia das Indias'--Shipwreck of the East India Company--reflects these connections and influences. Pieces of broken faux tiles and ceramics form a mosaic of mixed heritage that is indicative of the shipwrecked, mixed up cultures of colonialism.