MAXWELL ALEXANDRE
b. 1990, BrazilMaxwell Alexandre is a contemporary Brazilian artist renowned for large-scale paintings that celebrate Black empowerment, community and spirituality, whose practice addresses religion, popular culture, and class. In 2025, the London gallery Carlos/Ishikawa announced its representation of Alexandre, marking a significant new chapter in his international career.
Early Years and Background
Born in Rocinha, Rio de Janeiro in 1990, Maxwell Alexandre grew up in Brazil’s largest favela, an experience that profoundly informs his work. He was raised in an evangelical household and was a professional skater before studying design at Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro (PUC-RJ). Alexandre continues to live in Rocinha, drawing daily inspiration from his immediate environment and using his life journeys to shape his artistic voice.
Maxwell Alexandre’s Artworks
Maxwell Alexandre’s artworks often feature Black subjects depicted with dignity, self-esteem, and strength. Since 2017, he has painted extensively on brown craft paper (‘pardo’), a choice loaded with both aesthetic and political meaning in Brazil. His seminal series ‘Pardo é Papel’ (‘Pardo is Paper) explores themes of Black identity, speculation on future prosperity, and ascension.youtube
- Pardo é Papel series: Launched in 2019, this travelling exhibition was featured at MAC Lyon (France), MAR (Rio de Janeiro), Fundação Iberê Camargo (Porto Alegre), David Zwirner (London), The Shed (New York), and Palais de Tokyo (Paris).
- Novo Poder (‘New Power’): Recent shows examine new forms of Black agency and power, as seen at Palais de Tokyo (2021), Casa Encendida (Madrid, 2023), and A Gentil Carioca (São Paulo and Rio).
Select Awards and Accolades
- PIPA Prize finalist and winner (2020).
- Deutsche Bank ‘Artist of the Year’ (2021).
- São Sebastião de Cultura Award (2018).
Maxwell Alexandre Exhibition History
The following is a selection of exhibitions Maxwell Alexandre’s work has appeared in:
- Novo Poder, La Casa Encendida, Madrid (2023).
- Pardo é Papel, The Shed, New York (2022).
- Novo Poder, Palais de Tokyo, Paris (2021).
- Pardo é Papel: Close a Door to Open a Window, David Zwirner, London (2020).
Collections
- Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, UAE.
- Pinacoteca do Estado de São Paulo, Brazil.
- MASP, São Paulo, Brazil.
- MAR, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- MAC Lyon, France.
- Perez Art Museum, Miami.
Maxwell Alexandre FAQs
Who is Maxwell Alexandre?
Maxwell Alexandre is a contemporary artist from Rocinha, Rio de Janeiro, recognised for his distinctive paintings exploring Black identity and empowerment. You can follow Maxwell Alexandre on Ocula to learn more about his practice and exhibitions.
Where can I see work by Maxwell Alexandre?
Maxwell Alexandre works are exhibited at major international galleries and museums, including Carlos/Ishikawa in London, A Gentil Carioca in Brazil, and Pérez Art Museum Miami.
Are there lesser-known facts about Maxwell Alexandre?
Maxwell Alexandre was a professional skater before becoming an artist, and he co-founded the Church of the Kingdom of Art collective.
Where does Maxwell Alexandre live?
Maxwell Alexandre lives in Rocinha, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
How is Maxwell Alexandre’s name pronounced?
Maxwell Alexandre: ‘MAX-well A-leks-AHN-dri’.
Where can I buy Maxwell Alexandre’s work?
Maxwell Alexandre is represented by Carlos/Ishikawa as of 2025, as well as leading galleries in Brazil. You can enquire via Ocula and get in touch with Ocula’s art advisory team to find out more about buying or selling work.
Ocula | 2025
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