Brazil is a country of superlatives. It's a country of huge proportions and contrasts, and exercises a mysterious attraction over many people. With an area of 8.5 million square kilometres, it is virtually as big as Europe and covers half of the South American continent. Since the 16th century—when the Portuguese began settling in the country—Brazil always had a magic attraction to foreigners. First there was gold, then rubber and coffee, and today its legacy includes the country's rhythms, music, sports, industry and landscape.

Brazilians are renowned for their happiness, kindness and spontaneity. Brazil is a multicultural and multiethnic society. It is divided in five regions:

• North (the exotic Amazon)
• Northeast (the golden coast)
• Central-West (the heart of Brazil)
• Southeast (business and fun)
• South (manufacturing and pampas)

Each region has its own influences and identity. It's like five countries inside one big Brazil, all of them rich and diverse.

We want to explore these different regions, showcasing local, national and international artists that are part of the Brazilian diaspora.

The largest country in South America is a kaleidoscope of fascinating pictures. Expressions of Brazil will reflect this.

— Barbara de la Fuente, Artistic Director