João Vieira

João Vieira (1934, Vidago – 2009, Lisbon) was a pioneering Portuguese artist. He began his studies at the Fine Arts School in Lisbon but soon left to co-found the avant-garde Grupo do Café Gelo (1956). In Paris, he co-founded the group KWY (1958-1968), developing his interest in Lettriste painting and exploring new artistic practices. After a period in London (1964-1965), he returned to Portugal, embracing experimentalism in his work. Using unconventional materials like polyurethane and car paint, Vieira created assemblages, performances, and large-scale installations. He also worked in theatre, as a set designer and stage director, while continuing to draw from Lettriste influences.