As part of her community-centered and participatory research, School of Arts PhD student Sylvia Morgado recently premiered her documentary film Paving the Way – Pavilion Maxwell Alexandre at Rhodes House, exploring her PhD research on “Diversifying Audiences in UK Arts Institutions”. Created in collaboration with Modern Art Oxford, Morgado’s film investigates how engagement with diverse audiences can encourage new perspectives and connections in art spaces.
Morgado’s research journey took her to Rio de Janeiro, where she examined the work of Maxwell Alexandre, a renowned Brazilian artist celebrated for his dedication to Black culture and community. Alexandre gained recognition for establishing unique ‘pavilions’—pop-up galleries in unexpected public spaces that draw in new audiences and reshape traditional notions of art accessibility. Through his art, Alexandre portrays Black identity in powerful, authoritative forms and uses social media to foster a sense of belonging in his community.
In her documentary, Morgado visits Alexandre’s pavilions in Rocinha and São Cristóvão, interviewing visitors to understand the impact of these spaces. Her questions delve into whether these encounters inspire people to explore other art venues they might not have previously considered.
Morgado has also extended this exploration to cultural institutions in Oxford, where she invited individuals from diverse backgrounds, and many first-time visitors, to experience local museums and galleries. Her film, edited with film editor and colorist Ricardo Brasília and supported by Oxford Brookes, is a testament to the impact of accessible, community-driven art spaces on fostering inclusivity in the arts.