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Meet Jose Oliviera - Multidisciplinary artist
If ever there was a life fit for the pages of an epic novel or splashed across a mural, it’s that of Jose Rijo Oliveira. Born in Mozambique, Jose's early life was shaped by both cultural richness and the hardships of a nation in transition. His story isn’t just a tale of survival; it's one of transformation, creativity, and ultimately, self-discovery.
In his fantasy cultural year with Mark, Jose chose to be whisked away to visit Portugal, specifically to the city of Evora in the South Central region. Watch the video to find out more about his answers to Mark's 10 questions.
Growing up in Mozambique, Jose experienced firsthand the complexities of living in a land rich in beauty but marked by political upheaval. Like many of his peers, he served in the military during a time when Mozambique was finding its post-colonial footing. This period left an indelible mark on him, a sense of discipline but also a yearning for freedom that could only be satisfied by self-expression.
In his thirties, Jose made a life-altering decision to move to London. Armed with little more than determination and an openness to the unknown, he embarked on this journey to reinvent himself. He took on work as a cleaner, using the opportunity to sharpen his English skills. Eventually, he transitioned to a long-standing role as a security officer, but something within him was stirring, an unfulfilled calling.
The turning point came when Jose picked up a paintbrush. What started as a personal reflection grew into a powerful artistic journey. His first major work, a biographical piece, was a visual odyssey through the defining moments of his life. Each stroke told a story: his birth in Mozambique, the rigours of military service, marriages, migration to England, and the heart-wrenching loss of his first child. The raw honesty of his work earned international acclaim, particularly when recognised by a Sicilian arts organisation, catapulting Jose’s artistry into the global spotlight.
Jose's art is more than a medium; it's a conduit for emotions, memories, and spirituality. He paints with oils, acrylics, and watercolours, often infusing his pieces with a sense of the divine.. His work spans everything from canvases to murals, with his most celebrated pieces adorning the walls and ceilings of homes, a nod to his love for crafting immersive, boundary-defying art.
When asked about his creative process, Jose’s answer is refreshingly simple yet profound: he thrives on creating something "new and unusual," and finds joy in the challenges each new piece brings.
But Jose isn’t just an multidisciplinary artist. He’s also a model and actor, a man of many talents. His work as a model has paired him with notable photographers like Gino Cinganelli, Paul Stone, and Timothy James.
And then, Jose discovered acting, quite by chance. At the age of 51, he landed his first acting role as a Dutch businessman in an international film that, fittingly, bridged European and African cultures. It was a surreal moment for Jose, who found himself reflecting on the parallels between the character and his own cross-cultural experiences.
Whether he’s sculpting, painting, posing, or performing, Jose brings his whole self, his past, his pain, his joy—to every project. And the world is richer for it.
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Mark Walmsley FRSA FCIM AGSM
Chief Culture Vulture
Arts & Culture Network
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Chief Culture Vulture
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