Bradesco House | Nami Minaki Sandra | Knowledge World Network | Activities
Casa Bradesco, a recent exhibition space that opened its doors in September 2024, is situated within the Cidade Matarazzo complex adjacent to Paulista Avenue, a bustling hub for São Paulo’s industry and culture. Notably, the Rosewood São Paulo Hotel established its presence within the complex two years prior in 2022.
The term “Cidade” translates to “town” or “city” in Portuguese, and this complex’s land was originally owned by Francesco Matarazzo (1854-1937), a prominent figure who spearheaded the creation of over 300 companies across multiple industries during his lifetime. The Matarazzo conglomerate gained widespread recognition throughout Brazil in its heyday. Unfortunately, the company faced financial turmoil and filed for bankruptcy in 1980, leading to a significant downturn in its operations.
The historical backdrop of the Cidade Matarazzo complex includes the Humberto Primo Hospital, affectionately referred to as the Matarazzo Hospital by locals. Over the years, additions such as the Santa Luzia Chapel and an obstetrics and gynecology clinic were incorporated into the complex. Despite these efforts, financial difficulties ultimately led to the closure of the hospital after five decades of operation.
Recognizing the historical and architectural significance of the site, the Council for the Defense of Historical, Archaeological, Artistic and Tourist Heritage (CONDEPHAAT) designated the complex as a heritage site in 1986. Following this designation, the site remained relatively inactive for about two decades until rejuvenation efforts commenced after a rock festival took place in 2015.
The Casa Bradesco exhibition space was established within the confines of the historical buildings within the complex, covering an expansive area of 5,000 square meters and housing four distinct spaces: Aqui (Here), Ali (There), Acima (Above), and Abaixo (Below). The venue is equipped to showcase large-scale art installations and exhibitions, fostering a creative environment for artists and visitors alike.
During my inaugural visit to Casa Bradesco last month, the grandeur of the establishment immediately captivated me. The iconic rubber tree standing tall at the entrance appeared as though it had borne witness to the evolution of the complex over the years.
Upon stepping inside, I encountered an enchanting art bookstore with a serene ambiance. As I perused the shelves, I reveled in the atmosphere reminiscent of the building’s past as a hospital, highlighted by its tall, narrow windows characteristic of the era’s architectural style. The bookstore was a delightful sanctuary within the bustling exhibition space.
Featuring captivating works by acclaimed artists, such as the intricate “Chambre de Soie” (Silk Room) by French artist Eva Jospin, Casa Bradesco showcased a diverse range of artistic expressions. The monumental cardboard installation titled “Selva” (Jungle) captured my imagination with its elaborate depictions of trees and wildlife, demonstrating the artists’ innovative use of materials.
Exiting Casa Bradesco, I explored the adjoining garden shared with the Rosewood Hotel, admiring the stately 150-year-old olive trees and the meticulous landscaping despite ongoing renovations. The architectural feats beneath the Santa Luzia Chapel, including a cinema and event hall supported by massive pillars, underscored the scale and ambition of the site’s redevelopment efforts.
Looking ahead, I eagerly anticipate future exhibitions and artistic endeavors at Casa Bradesco, a cultural gem that continues to enchant and inspire visitors with each new showcase.