‘Macunaíma’, one of the great masterpieces of Brazilian literature, has become the theme for the newest immersive exhibition in São Paulo. Through technology, the exhibition creates a link between the past and the present, interacting with the writer and the myths present in the classic.
The exhibition will be on display until August 4 at Casa Mário de Andrade, which has just opened its doors to the public after a season of renovations and improvements. Admission is free. Check it out!
‘The Origin of Macunaíma’: exhibition marks the reopening of the Mário de Andrade House
Written in 1928, ‘Macunaíma’ tells the story of the “hero without any character” and is one of the most important books of Brazilian modernism. Furthermore, it is still a reference point for understanding the cultural diversity of our country.
The exhibition will have three parts; firstly, an immersive virtual reality experience. This will be followed by an exhibition on the expeditions of Koch-Grünberg, the German ethnographer who recorded the indigenous myths that inspired the writing of Macunaíma by Mário de Andrade. And finally a virtual tour of Mount Roraima, a place considered sacred by the indigenous community that lives in its surroundings.
In all, three virtual reality stations will be available to visitors, who will be able to enjoy individual fifteen-minute sessions. During the experience, it will be possible to virtually visit Mário de Andrade’s office, visit Mount Roraima and even talk to a shaman, who will tell stories about his people. VR activities are available for ages 12 and up.
Reopening the museum
After being closed to the public for some time, Casa Mário de Andrade is now open for business! The renovation, which cost around R$7.7 million, completely restructured and expanded the space, which gained two more buildings that also belonged to the author’s family.
What’s new is that the museum is now more accessible. This is because the new structures have ramps and elevators, Braille signs, tactile flooring and adapted toilets.