Mira Schendel

Mira Schendel gained renown for her intricate drawings on rice paper. Additionally, she was deeply engaged in painting, poetry, and sculpture.

Biography of Mira Schendel

Born Myrrha Dagmar Dub in Zurich, Switzerland, Mira Schendel's life traversed continents and cultures, leaving an indelible mark on the world of contemporary art. 

Raised in Italy, she commenced her drawing endeavors between 1930 and 1936 through participation in free art courses. In 1937, she enrolled at the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore to pursue studies in philosophy. However, with the onset of fascism and the rise of anti-Semitism at the outset of World War II, she was compelled to abandon her academic pursuits due to a decree prohibiting the enrollment of foreign Jews in higher education.

Consequently, in 1939, she departed Italy and embarked on a period of continuous movement throughout Europe.

In 1944, she relocated to Rome with her husband and commenced work with the International Organization for Refugees, facilitating the emigration of individuals displaced by war to the Americas. In 1949, Schendel and her husband departed for Porto Alegre. Upon settling in Brazil, she immersed herself in artistic pursuits, delving into studies and creating drawings, sculptures, and ceramics. From 1950 onward, she devoted herself entirely to painting.

Her participation in the São Paulo International Biennial in 1951 marked a pivotal moment in her career, propelling her onto the international stage. By 1953, she relocated to São Paulo and assumed the surname Schendel.

Throughout the 1960s, Schendel's work underwent a profound transformation. During the 1960s, her artistic focus shifted towards abstract exploration, moving away from figurative representations. During this time, she experimented with Japanese rice paper.

Throughout the 1970s, she persisted in her exploration of the "transparentization" of the world and time. In 1974, she initiated the "Datiloscritos" series, employing a large cylinder typewriter to "draw" (type) letters, symbols, words, and sentences. Transitioning into the 1980s, she rekindled her passion for painting.

Following Mira Schendel's passing in 1988, numerous exhibitions showcased her work both in Brazil and internationally. In 1994, the 22nd São Paulo International Biennial honored her legacy by dedicating a special room to her artwork.