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José Zanine Caldas

José Zanine Caldas (1919-2001) was a self-taught artist, designer and architect from Belmonte, Brazil.

For over 10 years he ran a workshop specialising in architectural scale models, where he developed over 500 models for top Brazilian architects including Oscar Niemeyer and Lucio Costa. In 1949, Caldas created the Fábrica Moveis Artísticos Z to produce standardised plywood furniture for a wider public.

Arist Biography

Tired of the capitalist approach of the company, he put an end to the venture and moved to the coastal suburb of Nova Viçosa. There he began to create furniture that was later called Móveis Denúncia – protest furniture. Inspired by both the local craftsmanship and the natural resources of the area, his large wooden pieces were often made from a single tree trunk. Caldas was demonstrating for future generations the variety and magnificence of the forest.

Caldas was a radical creator. His work always aimed to find essentialist aspects at the root of each of his projects, whether in the exploration of the natural environment or his conceptualisation of indoor space as a synergy of the senses. His engagement with Brazilian craftsmanship and natural materials underlies the character of all his work.

Exhibitions

Press

Designboom

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March 2024

turning tides' traces 75 years of brazilian design at carpenters workshop gallery

Between March 7 and May 1, 2024, Carpenters Workshop Gallery presents Turning Tides: Designing a Modern Brazil, an exhibition tracing 75 years of Brazilian...

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Designboom

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April 2023

Works by David Adjaye & Jose Zanine Caldas Launch New London Carpenters Workshop Gallery

CARPENTERS WORKSHOP GALLERY FINDS NEW HOME IN LADBROKE HALL Carpenters Workshop Gallery announces the opening of its new London home in Ladbroke Hall on April...

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STIRworld

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May 2023

Carpenters Workshop Gallery launches Ladbroke Hall with two solo exhibitions

Standalone feature on the opening of CWG’s new London flagship and its inaugurating exhibitions. Loic and some of the artists who attended the press preview...

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Les Echos

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January 2023

Shows, exhibitions, outings: our weekend selection

If you like design and the great signatures of the last century, this is the opportunity! The Carpenters Gallery brings together 90 pieces (a record) by Zanine...

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Galerie Magazine

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March 2025

Where to See Great Design in Los Angeles During Frieze Week

José Zanine Caldas’s sculptural style and commitment to ecological awareness cemented the late architect, sculptor, and designer as a leading figure in...

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Intramuros

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March 2023

Caldas the Forerunner

Unknown to the public and yet decorated by the French Academy of Architecture, the architect and designer José Zanine Caldas is exhibited at the Carpenters...

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