Nei Vital was born in the city of Uauá, in the backlands (sertão) of Bahia. He moved to São Paulo as a boy and, during his youth, came into contact with the big city's art scene. Seeing art as an opportunity to change his life, he began his journey through woodcut (xilogravura). In the search to find himself as an artist, he returned to his roots in cordel literature. Inspired by masters such as J. Borges, Samico, Heitor dos Prazeres, and Carybé, he created a unique identity within urbanity, distinguished by lines that blend the sertão with the metropolis.
It was through painting that Nei managed to portray all the memories of life in the 1990s backlands. His works are joyful and feature vibrant colors; despite the drought, he believes the sertão must be remembered for its beauty and its happy people. His work portrays the sertanejo always moving forward in search of a better life, escaping both drought and oblivion.
How did your journey into the art world begin?
Through artist friends, I had my first contact with art somewhat late in life. I remember a mix of enchantment and the possibility of doing something where I could express myself. In a short time, I was already working and living in an artistic residency in the Bela Vista neighborhood of São Paulo. it was a complete immersion; I stayed there for a few years until I could establish myself and walk on my own. Since then, there has been no possibility of doing or thinking about any other profession.
What themes do you prefer to explore in your works?
I draw my Northeast and everything involving it, such as migration to the Southeast, typical festivals, backland landscapes, the small towns where I lived, and portraits of my family, neighbors, and acquaintances. It’s not always the Northeast itself, but there is always a sertanejo portrayed.
What is your creative process like?
For the most part, it involves childhood memories—scenes I lived through that remained engraved in my mind. I simply have to search for them and portray them; at other times, they sprout on their own and go straight to the canvas. It is something simple but very precious.
Who are the artistic influences that have impacted your work?
I see art in almost everything. I find it impossible to list only a few artistic influences, as I am the junction of every exhibition visited, every intervention I see on the streets, and everyday moments that transform into art. When I started in the art world, I became obsessed with Heitor dos Prazeres, Carybé, Di Cavalcanti, and Candido Portinari, so I think they were my main influences in the beginning.
