With summer drawing near, perhaps the only hum more audible than the muffled bump of subwoofers in Brooklyn courtyards is the buzz of millions of football fans gearing up for Brazil’s World Cup. So we thought we’d catch up with Brazilian native Romero Britto, the Neo-pop artist whose lent his flamboyant signature style to brands like Absolut Vodka, Disney and Volvo among others.
Now, in honor of the World Cup this year, Britto is collaborating with the Swiss watchmaker Hublot to create a limited-edition World Cup timepiece (the box for each of which will be a football-shaped sculpture crafted by Britto himself).
Chatting with DuJour, Romero Britto spoke glowingly of Hublot’s “bold spirit” and craftsmanship, saying that “despite the trends and conventions of the times, they’ve made something never seen before with the rubber bracelet…and they made it beautiful! Hublot watches are like works of art, in their composition and attention to detail, qualities I take very seriously.”
Britto also mentioned how naturally the collab flowed: “The creative process for this project was a very easy one. I drew inspiration from the World Cup, my native country Brazil, and the idea of a celebration. I’m honored and excited about being so involved with the World Cup. I [love] the values that this sport in particular instills in people—discipline and democracy. The ability to be enjoyed by people around the world.”
Of course, the artist is overjoyed at the prospect of the World Cup’s return to his home country. “Brazilians live and breathe soccer. It’s part of the culture, almost like a religion! So this homecoming; this return of the world’s finest soccer tournament to Brazil after 60 years is a historic event.” Below, we submit Britto to our DuJour Questionnaire.
What was the best day of your life?
The best day of my life was when I was born and given the gift of life. I’ve had so many incredible days and memorable moments; I feel so blessed to be doing what I’m doing.
The worst?|
I don’t like to focus on the negative—the worst day of my life was on probably when I was a kid… but I’ve forgotten it already!
If you could spend a day in someone else’s shoes, who would it be?
So many people: President Obama, Albert Einstein, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, the Pope, the Queen of England, Elizabeth Taylor, Picasso and Walt Disney.
What’s your favorite hour of day?
I love waking up in the morning to the promise of a new day.
If you could relive any day in history, what would it be?
No particular day, but I would love to experience the Renaissance Period.
Did you break a sweat today?
Yes… I try to exercise everyday, but today’s was a bit light to be honest. Not too much sweating!
What was the best conversation you had today?
It’s still early, but I spoke to my best friend Alina Shriver for 30 minutes on my way to the studio. We do that constantly, and I always treasure our conversations.
If you wore a uniform every day, what would it be?
I would wear a beautiful uniform made by Dolce & Gabbana.
I didn’t want to, but today I _________.
…Will be on the phone for most of the day. I love the idea of communication and getting things done, but unfortunately I won’t have much time to paint today!
How would you spend your last day on Earth?
For my last day on Earth, I would want to love and be loved.
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