In April and May 2024, Rio Grande do Sul faced severe flooding, resulting in nearly 200 fatalities and $15.4 billion in damages. Museums and cultural sites suffered significant losses, including important artifacts and historical collections. Amidst the devastation, institutions like the Mercosul Biennial, which is postponed to 2025, are committed to revitalizing the arts sector and boosting the local economy. The cultural community remains hopeful for an eventual resurgence in visitor numbers as they work to rebuild and re-engage audiences through expanded programmes and outreach efforts.
"The floods, considered some of the worst in the country in almost a century, also severely harmed museums and heritage sites, and disrupted several cultural events throughout the region."
"Despite all the difficulties, the exhibition will reach more locations, including peripheral areas," Ferrão says. She hopes that it will bring an economic boost to a region that is still struggling to rebuild its infrastructure and economy.
"Relaunching the event is part of the reconstruction of Rio Grande do Sul's arts sector: 'It will bring more people here to energise the capital through art and education.'"
"The Museu Histórico Visconde de São Leopoldo...closed after water submerged more than 1.5m of its ground floor. The flood destroyed historic photographs, books, paintings and a 120-year-old Schiedmayer piano."
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