Meet Bella Cardim | Visual Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bella Cardim and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bella, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?

I pursued an artistic career because it allowed me to confront and navigate my journey and challenges. My art has become an instrument for self-exploration and a bridge to others with similar trajectories. It has led me to a deeper understanding of my limitations and revealed alternate perspectives on nourishment. My journey began with a photography class in college, where I discovered the power of photography to express emotions and tell stories. My love for gastronomy and photography merged into a career in food photography in Brazil, inspired by working in my father’s restaurant. For 15 years, I dedicated myself to food photography, capturing the essence of culinary delights and the intricacies of flavors. After moving to the U.S. and facing personal challenges, including a traumatic accident, I returned to school for my MFA. This experience expanded my artistic vision, leading me to explore the emotional and psychological aspects of food and self-image, ultimately transforming my art into a platform for discussing self-perception and societal expectations.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

My work deeply explores the intersections of food, body image, and identity, informed by my personal battles with eating disorders. Transitioning from food photography to contemporary art allowed me to shift focus from the aesthetic appeal of culinary subjects to the internal dialogues they provoke, particularly after adapting to life in the U.S. and navigating recovery from my husband’s accident.
Since embarking on my artistic career in 2020, I’ve seen my work reflected in both solo and group exhibitions, marking significant milestones in my journey. My recent solo show in November 2023, titled “No One is an Island,” curated by Adriana Herrera, Ph.D., stands as a testament to my evolving exploration of themes central to my work. This exhibition was a pivotal moment, allowing me to delve deeper into the complexities of human connection and isolation.
Earlier achievements include being selected by “The 55 Project” for a solo exhibition at The Bonnier Gallery in Miami, USA, from May to August 2023, curated by Jennifer Inacio. My participation in the Feria Clandestina in December 2022, with a solo exhibition selected by Nuria Richards, and my selection for the Florida Biennial in 2022, curated by Ylva Rouse, where my works “Dysmorphia” and “Restrained” were chosen from over a thousand submissions, highlight the recognition my work has received.
Among group exhibitions, I emphasize my participation in “Bolsa de Ficção” in São Paulo, Brazil, “Do Write to Me” in Ny, Miami and São Paulo, and ConTEXT II at Art Fluent in Boston, USA, where I received the “Director’s Choice” award for my piece “I Will Not Be Ashamed of My Body” from the “Writing Lines” series. These experiences have been crucial, allowing me to engage with wider audiences and contribute to the dialogue around the themes that drive my work.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

Absolutely! When in Miami, immerse yourself in its iconic spots. Start with the colorful Wynwood Walls, explore the chic Miami Design District, and soak up the vibes at South Beach. Art enthusiasts must not miss The Bass, ICA, Rubell, and Superblue museums – each a testament to the city’s thriving contemporary art scene. The Margulies and De la Cruz Collections are a must-see for an exclusive peek into private art collections. Dedicate a day to the serene beaches of Bill Baggs Park at Key Biscayne, followed by a stroll through the Cocowalk. And if you’re up for a short trip, hop on the Brightline train to West Palm Beach. There, indulge in a lunch at Sant Ambroeus and explore the Norton Museum of Art, renowned for its diverse American, European, and Chinese art collections and an incredible photography collection.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

I want to dedicate this shoutout to several individuals and influences who have played significant roles in my journey and contributed to my success. First and foremost, I want to express my deep gratitude to my family, especially my husband, who has been a pillar of strength and unwavering support throughout the challenges we’ve faced together. His resilience and determination have inspired me to push forward despite the most trying times.

A pivotal moment in my early journey was working as an assistant for Daniel Klajmic, a fashion photographer in my 20s. His work and mentorship ignited my love and interest in photography. Twenty years later, I’ve also had the privilege of benefiting from the guidance of my MFA coordinator, Bryan Hively, whose generosity ignited my passion for visual storytelling. Other esteemed professors, including Natasha Middagh, Stacey Mancuso, and Miguel Gonzalez, played significant roles in my growth, laying the foundation for my artistic journey and helping me discover the power of different media for self-expression. Additionally, the artistic community and groups such as “The 55 project,” “Uncool Artists,” “FAMA,” “SOMOS,” and fellow creators who have shared their experiences, insights, and wisdom have been invaluable in my growth as an artist. Their friendship and collaborative spirit have enriched my perspective and fueled my creative endeavors. My success and journey are indebted to the collective efforts, support, and inspiration from these individuals, groups, and experiences.

Image Credits
Portrait by Brooke D’Avanzo.