“Gift to the city” André Saraiva called it. It’s an apt description of the Ble/Reis Mural before us. Inaugurated this week, it stands as Lisbon’s largest urban artwork. André Saraiva dedicated two years to its creation.
The Ble/Reis Mural graces a wall in São Vicente de Fora. This is a popular neighborhood near the Panteão Nacional. Also nearby is the weekend flea market.
The impressive wall spans 864 square meters. It showcases over 50000 handmade tiles. Commissioned by the city council and MUDE, the Design and Fashion Museum. The Ble/Reis Mural reflects André’s Lisbon vision. It’s optimistic and playful.
André Saraiva incorporates many references into the Ble/Reis Mural. These include Portuguese and Lisbon elements. He also includes parts of his life. Paris and New York appear. These cities mark times when he lived there. Places filled with fantasies and dreams also feature. Look for giant wine bottles and Jacques Prévert books.
The Ble/Reis Mural truly sums up André. He is a free and pop spirit. He is irreverent and fast-living. Born in Uppsala to Portuguese parents. André grew up between Portugal and Paris. He is now based in New York.
For André, walls have always been his canvas. He started as an urban artist and writer. He confessed to Barbara Coutinho. She is MUDE’s director. His dream was to have a big wall in Lisbon. A wall that isn’t as ephemeral as graffiti.
The Ble/Reis Mural challenges his techniques as an artist. It also challenges eternity. It aims to ensure the artist’s presence through time.
The Ble/Reis Mural installation supports public art. It also celebrates Portugal’s tile-painting tradition. André proudly calls it a gift to Lisbon. So, let’s appreciate this gesture. Let’s marvel at the detail and artistry. Consider the artist’s journey. Remember his gift to this wonderful city. The Ble/Reis Mural is a testament to art’s power. It enriches our urban landscape. It connects us to the artist’s vision. It connects us to each other.