The paintings of Fonseca Martins are suitably displayed in the surroundings of Galeria Côrte-Real, a traditional Portuguese quinta in the countryside near Paderne.
Selecting romantic views of Algarvian architecture, the artist’s images are frequently enhanced by foliage and colourful flowers. A tree branch might reach out across a window pane or perhaps a creeper will trail along a wall. The scenes he paints are invariably enhanced by nature and the buildings are genteel and simple in their style.
Fonseca admires traditional buildings with their stone lintels and window sills, carved doors and engraved glass panels.
A long term resident of Tavira, now in his mid-sixties, Fonseca has witnessed many changes. Fondly remembering his childhood, nowadays he yearns to see buildings being restored rather than replaced with bland and modern styles.
He has been a professor at Tavira’s School of Art since 1981. During that time he has produced sculptures, engravings, ceramic tiles and paintings. His work can be seen in public and private collections across Europe, the United States and the United Arab Emirates.
Visit Côrte- Real’s new pop-up gallery at estate agents Fine and Country in Carvoeiro. The main gallery in Paderne is signposted from Boliqueime, Ferreiras and Paderne. It is open Thursday to Sunday, 11am until 5pm.
912 737 762 | www.corterealarte.com
By CAROLYN KAIN
Photo: ‘Quintessentially Portuguese’ painted by Fonseca Martins
