Chain Reaction

CHAIN REACTION is a social and cultural art project that aims to overcome barriers in Portugal's art scene by promoting and articulating a network between local artists and the global community.

Recognizing the insular nature of the Portuguese cultural context, our goal is to create and develop an accessible program with public events and an online database. We will boost the growth of the community with workshops, discussions and artist micro-residencies.

Hugo Brazão (Madeira, 1989) and Elizabeth Prentis (UK, 1993) lived in London for a decade, but their paths never crossed!

Meeting in Lisbon in 2022 sparked a collaborative mission to offer support and promotion to artists based in Portugal, facilitating collaborative opportunities and broadening connections.

In addition to their artistic practices, both also have experience in directing artistic projects which has lead to the development of CHAIN REACTION. Elizabeth and Hugo’s passion for creating new connections between people and creating opportunities for collaboration is the very core of this project.

CHAIN REACTION seeks to bridge the gaps between institutions, galleries, and curators while supporting emerging artists and underrepresented groups in the traditional art landscape. Recognizing the need for connection, the project aims to foster communication across various locations, enhancing both national and international artistic dialogue.

Through a series of dynamic events—including workshops, curated conversations and artistic micro-residencies CHAIN REACTION will create safe, informal spaces to discuss, develop and activate collaboration and community building.

The initiative addresses the fragmentation often seen in the art industry. Our research and experiences have revealed a disconnect within the artistic community. CHAIN REACTION aims to cultivate new networks: a chain reaction of engagement that grows organically.