Brazil

Photographer and director Olaf Heine has released a new photo book titled "Brazil" that showcases the country's landscape and architecture alongside the curves of its people, including surfers, dancers, and beautiful women. Heine aims to capture the essence of Brazil's soul and its sensual joie de vivre through his black and white photographs. The book also explores the legacy of Brazilian modernism, which was an aesthetic expression of a positive social, political, and urban transformation in the mid-20th century. "Brazil" is a beautiful gift for Brazil fans to immerse themselves in the country and its optimistic way of life.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 21 March 2024
Publisher: teNeues Publishing UK Ltd

Curves, the essence of the Universe, according to the renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer, have captivated the imagination of photographer and director Olaf Heine. Before his passing, Heine had the privilege of meeting the legendary architect, and since 2010, he has embarked on a captivating journey to explore the soul of Brazil. Through his lens, he has unveiled the country's vibrant and sensual joie de vivre, showcasing its intricate shapes and textures with remarkable sensitivity.

In his recently revised photo book, "Brazil," Heine juxtaposes the breathtaking Brazilian landscape and architecture with the graceful curves of its people—surfers, dancers, and beautiful women. He purposefully eschews the typical color palette, offering an unconventional black-and-white perspective of Brazil. However, Heine's interest extends beyond the abundance of curves in architecture and bodies. He delves into the idea of continuation in life, emphasizing the flexibility and constant flux that permeate every aspect. From the intensity of longing to the lightness of forms, Heine presents us with a fascinating country, brimming with diversity, beauty, and melancholy.

In his artistic works, Heine captures the longing that emerged among the first generation of Brazilian modernists in architecture, literature, and music during the mid-20th century. This longing represented an aesthetic expression of a society undergoing positive change, a utopian vision that still resonates with many people today, particularly in the current context. "Brazil," a coffee table book, embodies the very essence of Brazilian saudade—a longing and wanderlust for the tropical beauty of nature, the vibrant cities, and the unique individuals that make Brazil truly special. For all Brazil enthusiasts, this illustrated masterpiece serves as a delightful gift, allowing them to immerse themselves in the country and its optimistic way of life once again, free from clichés.

The book is accompanied by insightful texts by Oscar Niemeyer, Ruy Castro, Marcelo Camelo, and Matthias Harder, adding depth and perspective to the visual narrative. With its captivating images and thought-provoking essays, "Brazil" invites readers to embark on a journey of discovery, exploring the rich tapestry of this captivating nation.

Weight: 3020g
Dimension: 299 x 428 x 51 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783961715343