An artwork entitled 'Stadium' by Brazilian artist Edoardo Coimbra is exhibited at Somerset House in London, on July 20, 2012, during the launch of a free art exhibition showcasing the best of Brazilian contemporary art. Brazil will host the 2016 Olympic games. AFP PHOTO/WILL OLIVER.

This summer, Somerset House and Casa Brasil, home of the Brazilian Olympic Committee and Rio 2016 during the London 2012 Games, host an exciting exhibition of contemporary Brazilian art and design that celebrates the nation’s rich cultural offering.

Bringing together the best of Brazilian art and design today, the exhibition showcases 33 artists and designers, featuring both emerging and established names from each of Brazil’s regions to represent the vibrant art scene across the country.

Curated by Brazilian art historian Rafael Cardoso and designed by scenographers Daniela Thomas and Felipe Tassara for Somerset House’s Embankment Galleries, all of the works have been created in the past ten years and cover the country’s contemporary output in all its forms including installation pieces, painting, photography, video and sculpture.

Rafael Cardoso said: “Having been somewhat sidelined for many years, there is a growing interest in and renewed respect for Brazilian art and design on the international stage. We have a dynamic art scene in Brazil, which dares to take risks and produces interesting work on the cutting edge. This is why we chose the title ‘From the Margin to the Edge’.

“With the exhibition at Somerset House, we wanted to reflect this shift in global opinion and demonstrate why the Brazilians are here to stay by presenting an exciting and eclectic mix of artistic talent on one of the world’s biggest platforms, London 2012.”

The exhibition has been specially commissioned by Rio 2016™ exclusively for Casa Brasil at Somerset House. For the duration of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the spirit of the Rio 2016™ Games comes to Somerset House with Casa Brasil. With Rio following London as the next Olympic host city, Casa Brasil will be a focal point for everyone to experience the vibrant culture and creative energy for which Brazil is renowned.