Watch the short lecture on Paula Rego’s artwork at the top of the page.
Traveling to Lisbon, Portugal, and looking for top-rated cultural attractions? Look no further than the Casa das Histórias Paula Rego in the coastal town of Cascais. This museum houses the work of one of the most important painters of our time – Paula Rego.
Rego’s artwork is a reflection of her upbringing in Portugal during the years of dictatorship, her adult life in England, and her status as an Order of the British Empire awardee. Her paintings are an opportunity to dive deep into the larger-than-life female characters and deliberate blurring of boundaries between fantasy and reality, suffering and pleasure, colorful and dark.
Rego’s artistic range is expansive, with a focus on folk tales, young girls, and the feminist movement. Her later works include the Dog Women series, in which women defy conventional feminine behavior, and the Untitled: The Abortion Pastels series, which documents illegal abortions. These works express her rage and highlight the hypocrisy of the outcome of Portugal’s failed 1998 referendum on abortion.
The Casa das Histórias Paula Rego museum in Cascais, Lisbon District is a testament to Rego’s life and works. The museum was designed by architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, who was personally chosen by Rego. The building combines historical architecture with contemporary design, making it both unique and captivating. The museum features distinctive pyramid-shaped towers, red-colored concrete, and mature trees incorporated into the design. With 750m2 of exhibition space, a 200-seat auditorium, shop, and café, the museum offers a perfect space to immerse yourself in the world of Paula Rego. It is a must-visit destination for any art lover traveling to Portugal.
To get a deeper insight and interpretation of Rego’s work, watch the accompanying video available at the top of the page, with art expert Jonathan Hirschfeld. Hirschfeld describes Rego’s unique way of telling stories through her paintings that deal with legends and great metaphors. The painting The Company of Women, for instance, reveals the artist’s point of view on gender conventions.
Don’t miss the opportunity to discover and experience the world of Paula Rego in the Casa das Histórias Paula Rego museum. It is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.
Are you planning a trip to Lisbon and seeking the best cultural experiences, ranging from classical to contemporary art venues? Look no further! Explore the Culture Treasure travel guide to Lisbon for insider tips on top galleries, museums, and architectural landmarks.
