Éli Moreira

What role do you think art can play in social change?

I see art as a fundamental factor for human development and a basic right related to freedom of speech. Art is a powerful tool, capable of describing social structures; denouncing violence, oppression, and inequalities; and expressing human subjectivity. It’s through art that we can express feelings that often can’t be named, as well as transcend reality and make it healthier—more palatable and digestible.

How would you describe your artistic practice as it relates to supporting social movements?

My artistic process expresses concerns about issues that deal with gender and sexuality, diversity, and class inequalities. Approaching these issues that are part of my experience is one way I found to be active in the fight against social inequalities and violence against certain marginalized groups. A big part of my artistic repertoire was acquired collaboratively with other artists. Through exchanges and collaborative work, we managed to reach more and more people with our art and raised important discussions about the imperative changes our society needs. Also, I have an academic background in human studies with a focus on gender and diversity. I’ve worked in public schools proposing debates related to these themes. I also took part in other university projects where I was able to combine my artistic practice with academic knowledge to propose recreational activities for children and youth from marginalized communities of Salvador. Art is my most important tool to transform society.

What do you hope to achieve through this award?

I hope to broaden my work’s visibility as well as subsidize my artistic practice and cover basic survival expenses. The financial and intellectual acknowledgment of my art practice and research is vital to its continuity and to develop more collaborations with other fellow artists and for the Brazilian community.