Europe’s First Outdoor Installation by Brazilian Artist Hélio Oiticica Unveiled at Goodwood Art Foundation

31 July 2026

Goodwood Art Foundation has unveiled the first outdoor installation in Europe by the renowned Brazilian artist Hélio Oiticica, introducing a boldly coloured, maze-like structure to the 70-acre landscape.

Magic Square #3 (1978/2026) is an open-air architectural labyrinth made from brightly coloured painted walls, occupying a footprint measuring 15 x 15 x 5 metres. Embodying the artist’s radical vision to make art participatory and inclusive, it is designed to be walked through and explored, enabling visitors to encounter vivid planes of colour that shift under the changing natural light. Located on the edge of the Foundation’s woodland with views towards the Sussex coast, the sculptural installation is on long-term loan to Goodwood Art Foundation, having been meticulously constructed according to the late artist’s instructions.

Hélio Oiticica (1937-1980) is widely regarded as one of Brazil’s leading artists, known for his innovative exploration of colour. He sought to challenge the way art could be experienced by creating immersive installations in which the viewer could become an active participant. His Magic Square series, developed between 1977 and 1979, are monumental examples of these investigations. Sadly, the artist never saw a version realised before passing away at the age of 42. A highly significant figure within 20th century art, it was Oiticica ‘s work Tropicália (1966-1967) that came to define the ‘Tropicalismo’ movement of art, music and Brazilian identity in the 1960’s.

Richard Grindy, Director of Goodwood Art Foundation, said: "The opportunity to realise and present the first outdoor installation of Hélio Oiticica’s work in Europe is an extraordinary opportunity and a reflection of our commitment to bringing internationally significant art to West Sussex. Set within our landscape, the work allows visitors to experience Oiticica’s radical vision in a setting that amplifies its enduring relevance and vitality.”

Explore more via Goodwood Art Foundation.

Image: Hélio Oiticica, Magic Square #3 (1978/2026). Installed at Goodwood Art Foundation, UK © César and Claudio Oiticica. Courtesy Lisson. Photography by Maria Bell.