Brazilian-born UK-based artist, Olivier Mourao, embraces a simplistic maximalist style in his practice. He strives to create intense moments of pure hedonism through a distinctive “closed eye” process. Spontaneity and simplicity are integral to Mourao’s practice. He initiates each artwork by drawing directly on a blank canvas with paint straight from the tube.
As part of his mixing process, he covers the paint and canvas with paper that he has handcrafted. Mourao’s life as an artist is an inspiration to many. Mourao’s work has been featured in more than 700 publications and showcased in 74 exhibitions around the world.
Olivier Mourao’s practice is inspired by his close friendships with the artists Picasso and SalvaDor Dali, where the imaginary meets creativity using bold vivid colours with his energetic free flowing ensemble of expressionist mark making. Hints of Matisse and Chagall are also present in his work.
Sustainability has always been integral to his work, woven deeply into the fabric of his creative practice and evident in every piece. From the beginning of his career, he recognised that sustainability is vital for preserving the beauty he deeply admires, whether in nature, ideas, or relationships. This belief manifests itself in the use of handmade paper with natural elements from the Amazon and eco-friendly materials in his works. His art often incorporates recyclable paper, leaves and flowers made from organic fibers, and organic material from burnt flowers mixed with organic paints. His previous exhibitions, inspired by the Amazon and focused on sustain- ability, demonstrate his ongoing commitment to combining art with environmental awareness.
2025
Salon international D’art Contemporain, Louvre
April 2025, Paris – France
2024
Saatchi Gallery
Square Freedrom, London, UK
2023
Saatchi Gallery
Amazon Passion, London, UK
2022
Saatchi Gallery
Amazon Love, London, UK
2021
Saatchi Gallery
Painting with Paper, London, UK
2020
Mount Gallery
Mayfair, London, UK
2019
Pavilion of Santa Eulalia
Ibiza, Spain
2018
Diario de Ibiza
Ibiza, Spain
2017
Moving Figures
B12 Gallery, Ibiza, Spain
2016
Moving Figures
Museu Inimá de Paula, Minas Gerais, Brazil
2015
The Lloyds Club
London, UK
2014
The Lloyds Club
London, UK
2013
B12 Gallery
Ibiza, Spain
2011
Retrospective
Museu Inimá de Paula, Minas Gerais, Brazil
2010
K.5 Gallery
Ibiza, Spain
2009
K.5 Gallery
Ibiza, Spain
2008
K.5 Gallery
Ibiza, Spain
2007
K.5 Gallery
Ibiza, Spain
2006
Eden Gallery
Arosa, Switzerland
2005
K.5 Gallery
Ibiza, Spain
2004
Pool Party K.5
Ibiza, Spain
2004
Global Room Pacha
Ibiza, Spain
2003
K.5 Gallery
Ibiza, Spain
2002
K.5 Gallery
Ibiza, Spain
2001
K.5 Gallery
Ibiza, Spain
2000
K.5 Gallery
Ibiza, Spain
1987
The Center Gallery
Mayfair, London, UK
1987
The Holland Gallery
London, UK
1967
Palacio dos Leiloes
Minas Gerais, Brazil
1967
Amato Loanza Studio Art Gallery
New York, USA
1965
L’Atelier d’Art
Minas Gerais, Brazil
at the Saatchi Gallery.
Sold in 2024 at auction at Saatchi Gallery for £85,000