Favela Painting Project

Since 2005, the favelas of Rio de Janeiro have provided the inspiration and locations for several public artworks, together with local community members, and each new project is larger than the last.

The Favela Painting Project creates striking artworks in Rio de Janeiro, collaborating with local people to use art as a tool to inspire, create beauty, combat prejudice and attract attention. 

This time, the Dutch Haas and Hahn launched a campaign on crowdfunding site Kickstarter to raise the necessary funds to paint the entire Vila Cruzeiro in Complexo da Penha, creating a community artwork of unprecedented scale, "a monument that will radiate the pride and energy of the people who live in a community that they built with their own hands."

This project aims to provide an opportunity for people to transform a place seen as negative into a place that communicates creativity, beauty and innovation, all through art.

In addition to the visual enhancement by painting, the project aims to intervene in improving the houses comfort conditions, thermal and acoustic, increasing the value of each property. Through training and recruitment, new jobs can be created in a place where opportunities are scarce. Finally, the artwork created will attract new visitors, which could translate into new business opportunities and employment for the residents.

The Favela Painting Project aims to engage the community through art, creating a voice for the people, influencing public opinion and the media, to help change the perception of the favela and remove social stigma.

"The Favela Painting Foundation supports the creation of striking artworks in unexpected places. It collaborates with local people to use art as a tool to inspire, create beauty, combat prejudice and attract attention." It is based in Amsterdam, works independent, and operates in Rio de Janeiro with local representatives.

Visit Kickstarter page and get involved in this new project!