Decolonial practices in Brazilian art: an analysis of Faz que vai (2015), by Bárbara Wagner and Benjamin de Burca

Abstract

This article analyzes Faz que vai (2015), by Bárbara Wagner and Benjamin de Burca, a 12-minute video divided into four scenes, in each of which a character performs a heterogeneous dance to the sound of a percussive frevo composition, mixing frevo steps (cultural heritage) with swingueira, funk and vogue, among other popular genres. The work problematizes notions around popular culture, the body, race and gender. It offers us a good opportunity to read Brazil (and the Northeast) from the point of view of the dancing body. Thus, the main objective of this article is, based on an analysis of the work, to investigate the dialogues between it and decolonial aesthetics and how it can help to destabilize stereotypical images. To this end, we will first present some theoretical and methodological considerations that will allow us to analyze the work. Secondly, we will present the biography and some elements of the artistic practice of the Wagner and de Burca duo. We will then carry out a descriptive analysis of Faz que vai. Finally, we'll make some concluding remarks in an attempt to answer the key research questions