BETWEEN ERASURE AND MEMORY

MODERNISM THROUGH LENSES

Abstract

This photo shoot was developed with the aim of adding  information to archives of buildings builted in modernism in the city of Belém-PA; since we can consider phorography a tangible way of safeguarding, and is capable of transmitting the architectural essence of this movement through arrangements composed of lights and shadow. each visual record is in some way contributing to the preservation of this piece of history; This is a fundamental measure, given that over time, cities tend to undergo different renovations, and it is common for different architectural styles to disappear.

In particular, modernist architecture is one of those that suffer the most from this fact, as it is not usually very appreciated due to its “lack of adornment”, so it is easier for us to see a large part of its examples falling to the ground. Bearing in mind that these constructions often go through time without any kind of documentation, creating this compilation of photographs focusing on the details that make these buildings stand out in their unique style is increasingly necessary for awareness purposes.

The images that follow are of three distinct buildings, focusing on their construction details and patterns of the modernist aesthetics of Pará, details that often go unnoticed by laypeople. These are just some of the emblematic buildings of the modern period in the capital (Belém-Pa). Even the buildings that are best known for their historical value, there are only a few that are still preserved, with few deteriorations, and even some maintenance concerns.

The state of conservation of the buildings presented varies, from the most complete abandonment (INAMPS) to readjusted use and even a little closer to their original state. SETRAN is the only subject of a preservation order since 2006 by DPHAC, and the Don Carlos building is still in the process of being listed. In the sequence it will be clear that even though the constructions are part of the same movement, each one has its differences and even resembles other languages from the same period such as brutalism. Pará modernism has its own unique touch, and among its best-known representatives is Camillo Porto, author of two works presented here.