A Master Artist in Brazil

“Try not to become a man of success. Rather become a man of value.” — Albert Einstein 

Often times, people who want to reach mastery will find a skill where they have some natural talent or passion for and then begin working hard at becoming more proficient. However, those who hope to one day make a living from the skill they master must take it a step further. It’s not simply about what we want, but also about exploring the best way your skill or talent can become valuable for others. Some will have an easier time at accomplishing this than others. For example, people with computer programming skills will likely have an easier time at marketing themselves over those in a much more saturated field like musicians or artists. Finding what works for you may take time and some bumps on the road, but as countless masters have said; “Failure is part of the process.”

I met a Master artist last night and didn’t even realize it until the morning. While on work related travel I’ve come across many street artists who sell their work to tourists. I’m in Brasilia, Brazil and after a long day of meetings my colleague and I walk across the street from the hotel to have a few drinks. The master we met is named Juleval and goes by the name Meia-Noite (Midnight). He simply came by to our table, told us he’s not selling anything, and then began finger painting on a slab of clay. We were intrigued and started asking him questions. 

 I spoke in Spanish an he responded in Portuguese. These Romance languages have some key differences, but the piece of art bridged the gap in our communication. We watched his fingers skillfully create waterfalls, bridges, palm trees and more within a few minutes. Next I asked him about his work while he painted a second piece for me. Juleval explained that he is originally from Bahia (northeast Brazil), but many in his family now reside in Rio de Janeiro. He walks around Brasilia (the capital) to sell art and help support his family. The long term plan, however, is to have his true work showcased in a gallery.

Meia-Noite explained that he also paints with brushes and has 40 large frames back home detailing his life and experiences. Police abuse he’s seen in favelas, struggles to survive in Brazil, and his Africa based spirituality among other topics. I call Juleval a Master because of his expertise as a painter, but I believe he will achieve success due to a visionary outlook, proper planning, and dedication. He believes in art as a way to empower others, but understands talent alone is not enough in a saturated market. My colleague and I both knew he wanted to sell something, but Meia-Noite made us forget that thought by asking to simply share the work. Ultimately, he made the sale and taught us about life and art for an hour. In essence, his goal is to become a successful painter who can reach the masses, but his strategy is to add value in the lives of those whom he encounters.

We can all learn a bit from Juleval. I hope someone who reads this one day comes across him and gains the same value that I did in our short meeting.