Totonho: Art as Life, Soul, and Responsibility
For Totonho, artistry is not merely a career or a choice but an innate calling—one he likens to being a messenger entrusted with sacred letters. This profound sense of purpose stems from his belief that art embodies his identity, spirituality, and sustenance. His parents and older brother played a pivotal role in nurturing his aspirations, offering unwavering support that allowed him to embrace his path wholeheartedly.
Throughout his career, Totonho has maintained an unshakable commitment to his craft. Describing art as his “mother, family, and religion,” he channels his experiences, emotions, and worldview into every stroke. His creative process is imbued with gratitude, resilience, and an acknowledgment of the privilege of artistic expression. Despite the challenges inherent in his journey, Totonho’s devotion to art has remained steadfast, driven by an unrelenting desire to translate his vision into visual narratives.
Nature dominates Totonho’s oeuvre, serving as both inspiration and subject matter. While human figures often subtly permeate his work, they are depicted as interlopers—agents of environmental disruption. His pieces critique the ecological degradation wrought by mankind, from deforestation and mining to river pollution and displacement of Indigenous communities. Through these themes, Totonho positions his art as a voice for both the voiceless and the endangered.
Fazenda chocolate – 190 x 140 cm
Portraits of Reality: Totonho’s Artistic Style and Influences
Totonho’s artistic style defies traditional classifications. As a self-taught artist, he prioritizes authentic expression over adherence to specific movements or techniques. His works exude raw emotion, focusing on the interplay between humanity and the natural world. Totonho’s choice of oil and acrylic paints reflects the practicality of his early access to materials, though he remains open to exploring new mediums.
Unlike many artists, Totonho did not grow up exposed to visual art but found his muse in music and literature. The poetic melodies of Louis Gonzaga and the vivid storytelling of Cordel literature shaped his early imagination. Later, musicians like Milton Nascimento and Belchior deepened his appreciation for art’s transformative power. These influences, though not visual in nature, resonate in Totonho’s ability to weave narrative depth into his paintings.
Among his most treasured works is “Pelourinho de Estrelas pelo Chão”, a poignant commentary on systemic neglect and lost potential. The piece symbolizes the tragedy of young talents thwarted by societal inequities. In contrast, he also draws inspiration from the work of Brazilian modernist Candido Portinari, particularly the iconic painting “Retirantes”. This piece depicts the plight of northeastern migrants in Brazil, mirroring Totonho’s own engagement with themes of struggle, resilience, and human dignity.
