Vandalism at São Paulo's Virada Cultural: Di Cavalcanti Artwork Defaced

Vandalism at São Paulo's Virada Cultural: Di Cavalcanti Artwork Defaced São Paulo, Brazil – A Di Cavalcanti artwork, a protected cultural heritage piece, was vandalized during the city's Virada Cultural event on May 24, 2025. The incident occurred at approximately 10:43 PM in a building designed by the renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer. Security camera footage clearly shows two individuals defacing the glass tile panel depicting workers with their tools. "Instead of helping, of doing something to see the panel restored, people do this," lamented Everaldo Batista, the building's caretaker of 27 years, expressing his profound disappointment. The vandalism has sparked outrage among art lovers and preservationists. The incident highlights the vulnerability of public art and the need for increased security measures at cultural events. Authorities are investigating the incident and searching for the perpetrators. The restoration of the damaged artwork is expected to be costly and time-consuming. This act of vandalism serves as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting cultural heritage for future generations.