ITEM Systems has announced plans to install a new, non-replaceable bronze plaque on a mural in Santos, Brazil. The accompanying mural was installed to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the first wave of Italian immigrants to the region, many of whom came from Genoa, Italy. Similar to the plaques installed at DENVER WALLS, the NFI plaque will provide tap-and-scan functionality for mural visitors to learn more about the artwork, the artists and the piece’s cultural significance to the region.
Entitled A sea of hopeThe mural is part of local municipal efforts to revitalize the Valongo neighborhood in the city’s central region through the use of public art and education. On March 2, 2024, it was inaugurated at a ceremony attended by the Mayor of Santos and the Deputy Mayor of Genoa.
The mural was conceived by a trio of artists: two living in Brazil and a recent Italian immigrant to Santos. The artwork depicts an immigration story, with an Italian woman leaving Genoa and various symbols of the culture of the two cities.
Source: She Wolf by Giulia.
To further play on the cultural symbolism, the mural was painted on a building that used to house the Italian Consulate, located on Tuiuti Street opposite the upcoming Valongo Park. The park’s location is important because it served as the historic ‘landing site’ for Santos, where many arrived in the port city.
When users tap or scan the installed plaque, a mobile web app provides an interactive map that directs users to areas of interest in the city and to local business partners.
Metalworking for the bronze ITEM System NFI plaque is underway and the team expects the plaque to arrive in Santos for installation in March 2024.
Looking ahead, officials in Genoa have already expressed their intention to support the painting of a sister mural that will reference the city of Santos.
The link to the announcement can be found below:
https://x.com/item_systems/status/1765820906788606433