Brazilian artists use World Cup to speak out

For many, the World Cup was the perfect opportunity to celebrate one’s nation, uniting to root for the same team. For others, it was a chance to communicate with the world through art.

The street artists in Brazil took the world’s spotlight to showcase their street art and to communicate globally salient messages. From national pride to political criticism, the street art of Brazil eliminated language barriers and sparked conversation all around the world.

Here are some examples of some notable examples of Brazilian street art during the 2014 World Cup.

This mural by Paulo Ito is probably the most circulated image of street art during Brazil's World Cup. The politically charged image highlights the poverty plaguing Brazilians.

This painting by A.Signl and B.Shanti represents the burden of hosting the World Cup on Brazilian citizens. 

Many hands are shown helping to hold up Brazil and the world in this mural in Sao Paulo. 

This work by Cranio comments on the public money spent frivolously on the World Cup. 

Street artist Jambeiro refers to Brazilian soccer player Givanildo Vieira, "Hulk," in this street mural. 

To see more views of the street art in Brazil, check out this compilation on Google Maps. 

FIFA 2010 World Cup Artwork

William Kentridge's Bicycle Kick

Anticipation grows with the advent of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which starts on June 11, 2010. Along with the excitement of the game, the marketing of limited-edition posters has drawn fans and collectors alike to the common ground of football, or soccer as Americans call it. Seventeen artists from around the world were commissioned to create official posters to advertise the sport and generate additional revenue. Selling for as little as $121, the posters offer a variety of soccer-related imagery and range of colors. Each artist kept within the theme and inspiration of the World Cup, and they are sure to make a unique souvenir for soccer enthusiasts.

The South African art community is also very excited about the influx of fans and tourists. Galleries such as David Krut Projects have prepared to showcase the talent of the locals, by focusing on contemporary art and design of South Africa. David Krut Projects has also been instrumental in marketing the posters. Gallery manager Taryn Hackett says,

“We are hoping for an increase in foot traffic through our gallery during the World Cup. We want to be able show an international audience the inherent creative talent in South Africa. We have chosen to exhibit works which reflect a wide range of subject matter, techniques and mediums, by both established and upcoming South African artists.”

By combining art with soccer, a broader audience was reached thus uniting the spirit of South Africa. While you may not be attending the games, be sure to check out the World Cup on June 11 as well as http://bit.ly/bro5LT for more information on the posters and where to buy them.