Panmela Castro
N. 1981, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
Vive e trabalha em Rio de Janeiro e São Paulo, Brasil
Maryse Condé, da série Retratos Relatos: Revisitando a História [HerStory series: Revisiting History], 2025
oléo sobre linho
[oil on linen]
[oil on linen]
150 x 110 x 8 cm
59 x 43 1/4 x 3 1/8 in
59 x 43 1/4 x 3 1/8 in
23238
© artista [the artist]
"Nourishing dreams of freedom." These words by Maryse Condé encapsulate her journey as a writer and activist, always dedicated to empowering women, especially in the Francophone world. Recognized as one of the most awarded authors in Francophone literature, Condé stood out as a major voice in contemporary literature, receiving, among other honours, the New Academy Prize in Literature in 2018.
With a doctorate in Comparative Literature from the Sorbonne, Maryse Condé taught at prestigious universities such as Berkeley, the University of Virginia and Columbia University, where she founded the Center for French and Francophone Studies. Her literary work, which includes titles such as Segu (1984) and I, Tituba: Black Witch of Salem (1986), addresses the legacy of enslavement, colonialism and gender oppression. In these books, both historical and fictional women find their voices and break free from the limitations imposed by their realities. Maryse stated that she wrote to answer her own inner questions, explore the complexities of identity and memory, and seek to understand her place as a Black woman and a writer.
As a feminist activist, Condé was known for her sharp critique of political and social systems, boldly addressing issues of racism and gender inequality. Her work not only influenced literature, but also fueled a broader movement for social justice and women's rights, making her a key figure in discussions on freedom and identity.