In celebration of Latin American Heritage Month (also known as Hispanic Heritage Month), our K-5th grade students recently explored the vibrant world of Brazilian artist Romero Britto. After learning about his life and unique style, our young artists were inspired to recreate their own fun and colorful art pieces!

What is Latin American Heritage Month?

Latin American Heritage Month is a period in the United States, celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15, that recognizes and celebrates the rich histories, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

Who is Romero Britto?

Romero Britto is an internationally renowned artist, painter, and sculptor, known for his instantly recognizable style that brightens up the world.

• Brazilian Roots: Britto was born in Recife, Brazil, and started painting at a young age, often using scraps of newspaper or cardboard due to his modest upbringing.

• Art Style: He is the founder of the Happy Art Movement, which aims to inspire hope and happiness through art. His style is a cheerful and optimistic mix of Pop Art and Cubism.

  • Pop Art: Uses bright, vibrant colors and simple, recognizable images.

  • Cubism: Breaks images down into geometric shapes or fragments, outlined with bold, black lines.

• Themes: His work is full of vibrant color, playful patterns (like stripes, polka dots, and zig-zags), and themes of love, fun, and optimism. Popular motifs include hearts, flowers, and animals.

By learning about Romero Britto, our students connected with a key figure in modern Latin American art and channeled his joyful, positive spirit into their own fantastic creations!