MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology) presents an exciting solo exhibition titled “Plug-In” by the renowned Portuguese artist, Joana Vasconcelos. This unique showcase brings together an array of new works, iconic pieces created since 2000, and select artworks from the EDP Foundation Art Collection. It’s a celebration of electricity heritage, technology, and visual arts that promises an unforgettable experience for all art enthusiasts. “Plug-In” will be at MAAT through 31 March 2024.
(Photo at top: Bruno Lopes)
Two Remarkable Museum Buildings
“Plug-in” unfolds in both of MAAT’s distinctive museum buildings, now known as MAAT Central and MAAT Gallery. Let’s explore what you can discover in each of these stunning spaces.
MAAT Central
In this historic setting, Joana Vasconcelos unveils “Árvore da Vida” (Tree of Life), a breathtaking creation from 2023. This artwork was originally conceived as part of the Portugal-France Cross Season and has now been ingeniously adapted to the Power Station. Its presence within this venue sets the stage for a captivating fusion of art and industrial history.
MAAT Gallery
At the MAAT Gallery, visitors are treated to a total of seven incredible works by Joana Vasconcelos. Among them are:
- Two Transformed Vehicles: Witness two conventional vehicles transformed into mesmerizing works of art. Drag Race (2023) is a Porshce adorned with intricate gilded carvings and flowers. This new creation engages a thought-provoking dialogue with War Games (2011), covered with toy rifles and stuffed toys.
- I’ll Be Your Mirror (2019): Experience the magic of the mirror mask, popularized with this title, as it reflects and refracts reality in fascinating ways.
- Solitaire (2018): Marvel at the gigantic ring installation “Solitaire” outside the museum, a piece previously showcased at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao.
- Valkyrie Octopus: From Asia, Joana Vasconcelos brings us the tentacular textile sculpture “Valkyrie Octopus,” created in 2015 for the MGM Macau resort. For the first time in Europe, this extraordinary piece is displayed in the Oval Gallery.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the culmination of Joana Vasconcelos’s artistic journey at MAAT’s “Plug-In” exhibition. It’s a testament to the power of creativity, heritage, and innovation, all housed within the iconic MAAT Central and MAAT Gallery.
For more information, visit the MAAT website.
MAAT
Avenida Brasilia
Belém
Lisbon
Phone: +351 210 028 130
Bookings: visitar.maat@edp.pt
Hours:
Wednesday to Monday – 10:00 to 19:00
Closed Tuesdays, 1 May, 24, 25 & 31 Dec, and 1 Jan
