Auriovane D' Ávila (b. 1979, Goiás) is a Brazilian artist whose journey is deeply connected to his homeland. His passion for creative expression began at the age of eight while shining shoes in the historic center of Goiás Velho, a city recognized by UNESCO as a cultural and historical heritage site. It was there, observing the vibrant daily life—from milkmen to oxcarts, and from historic mansions to urban landscapes—that he found the inspiration that would shape his artistic vision.
Training and the Rediscovery of a Unique Expression
His unique perspective led him to enroll in the Veiga Vale School of Plastic Arts at the age of nine. His early works stood out for their rigorous anatomical studies in pencil, demonstrating a keen technical precision. Simultaneously, he explored the expressiveness of oil, acrylic, and watercolor paints.
Auriovane, however, transcended traditional techniques by rediscovering his primary form of expression: painting with the colored sands of the Serra Dourada. Since adolescence, he has dedicated himself to collecting the various natural shades of these sands on expeditions, transforming them into his unique palette. This approach, which unites art and geology, allows Auriovane to masterfully explore expression, light, shadow, and anatomy, giving his works a singular texture and depth.
Notable Works and an Evolving Legacy
The artist's works, now featured in private collections around the world, reflect his sensitivity and deep connection to his roots, memory, and time, showcasing an expressive diversity and a style that moves between the traditional and the contemporary. Among them, notable pieces include:
"Lava Pés" (Foot Washing), a work that conveys deep spirituality and humanity.
"Mulher Águia" (Eagle Woman), a piece that fuses the feminine and the eagle to personify strength, transformation, and the connection between the body and nature. Inspired by rain, the composition evokes the cyclical essence of life through textures of natural sands.
"Garças Prateadas" (Silver Herons), a work that captures the poetry of flight and light. The canvas, made with natural sands, becomes a field of energy where silver and warm tones merge, evoking the reflection of light on water and the lightness of herons, in a meditation on freedom and elevation.
"Doce Poema" (Sweet Poem), a tribute to the iconic Goian poet Cora Coralina that translates the sweetness and strength of the writer's words into sand.
"Traços da História" (Traces of History), a monumental creation that depicts the rich culture and legacy of Goiás Velho. This work is permanently exhibited at the Museum of Judicial Memory, serving as a lasting testament to his production.
Auriovane continues to expand the limits of his technique, creating a legacy that celebrates the richness of his homeland and redefines the landscape of contemporary Brazilian art.
Professor and Educator
Auriovane’s career as an educator began early. At 18, he started teaching plastic arts at the traditional Veiga Vale School of Plastic Arts, where he remained until he was 22. After that period, he dedicated himself exclusively to perfecting his sand painting technique. In 2018, he returned to Veiga Valle, teaching there until 2024. This second period was marked by an intense creative exchange with his students, solidifying his role as an evolving educator and artist.
Participation and Recognition
Throughout his career, Auriovane has solidified his presence in the art scene with exhibitions in national shows and with works that are now part of international collections. His dedication to teaching is also notable, as he has taught at the City of Goiás School of Arts. His contributions extended beyond the classroom with an active role on the Cultural Council, where he helped shape local cultural policies.
Exhibitions and Other Highlights
Solo Exhibition at ALEGO (2016): A milestone that reinforced his prestige within the state, solidifying his position as one of the main representatives of Goian art.
"Salão do Artesanato" (Handicraft Show) (2018): Participations that allowed him to hold live demonstrations of his unique technique, captivating audiences in São Paulo and Belo Horizonte.
"Expominas" (Belo Horizonte): On this occasion, the artist was part of the prestigious Masters' Wing and also held live demonstrations of his singular sand painting technique.
"Caminho das Areias" (Path of the Sands) (2025): Held at the MC Gregor Gallery at Sesc Vila Boa, this major exhibition celebrated 32 years of his career. The show gathered more than 60 works representing different phases of his artistic trajectory, including pieces from private collections, offering a complete overview of his vast production.
In recognition of his notable cultural contribution, he was decorated with the Anhanguera Commendation, one of Goiás’s highest honors. With each new work, Auriovane continues to solidify his legacy, establishing himself as an essential reference in contemporary Brazilian art.