Do you see the interplay of light and shadow on this building’s facade? This is the Museu Arpad Szenes – Vieira da Silva. It is more than just a museum. It is a testament to the enduring love and artistic partnership of two remarkable artists.
The Museu Arpad Szenes – Vieira da Silva is dedicated to preserving and promoting the works of Arpad Szenes and Maria Helena Vieira da Silva. Vieira da Silva envisioned this space shortly after her husband’s death in 1985. She initially imagined a small study center in her Lisbon home. It would house their personal archives and some of their art. But she soon realized her home was too small for such a grand vision.
Guy Weelen and José Sommer Ribeiro suggested a more ambitious idea. It would be a museum dedicated to both Vieira da Silva and Arpad Szenes. This vision gained momentum with support from various foundations and President Mário Soares. Vieira da Silva carefully selected works and documents for the museum. She also bequeathed eighteen of her works and twenty of Arpad Szenes’s to the Portuguese State.
Vieira da Silva chose the location herself. It is the former Silk Fabrics Factory. She admired its simple, harmonious proportions. She also liked its connection to the Jardim das Amoreiras. Her mother had acquired a house nearby in 1926. The Museu Arpad Szenes – Vieira da Silva finally opened its doors on November 4, 1994. Sadly, Vieira da Silva passed away two years prior.
The museum’s collection spans a significant period of both artists’ careers. For Arpad Szenes, it covers 1911 to 1985. For Vieira da Silva, it includes works from 1926 to 1986. There’s also a collection of Vieira da Silva’s engravings. Some of these were created as late as 1991, just a year before her death.
The Museu Arpad Szenes – Vieira da Silva is more than just a repository of art. It is a center for study and research. It holds temporary exhibitions. These exhibitions often feature national and international artists. The museum aims to place Arpad Szenes and Vieira da Silva’s work within the broader context of national and international art.
In November 2024, the Museu Arpad Szenes – Vieira da Silva reopened after renovations. Pedro Falcão and Fernando Brízio designed these. The renovations included new skylights. The reopening was celebrated with an exhibition called 331 Amoreiras em Metamorfose.
The Fundaçaão Arpad Szenes-Vieira da Silva received honors. In 2015, it became an Honorary Member of the Order of Infante D. Henrique. In May 2024, it was awarded Honorary Membership of the Military Order of Sant’Iago da Espada.
As you explore the Museu Arpad Szenes – Vieira da Silva, consider the lives and legacies of these two artists. Their works reflect a deep connection. They also show their individual artistic journeys. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM. The admission fee is 7.50€. Take your time to appreciate the art and the history.