Douglas de Castro (aka Dojla), a Brazilian contemporary artist and illustrator based in the vibrant city of Goiânia, is a name that resonates in global art circles. As a co-founder of the internationally acclaimed collective Bicicleta Sem Freio with Renato Reno in 2005, de Castro has been at the forefront of creating striking, large-scale murals and illustrations that push boundaries and challenge norms. While his collaborative work has achieved iconic status, de Castro’s solo artistic journey showcases his depth, versatility, and a unique style often described as neo-tropicália.

A Unique Blend of Influences

De Castro’s artistic identity stems from a rich tapestry of influences, including 1960s psychedelic art, comic books, traditional tattoo motifs, 1980s pop culture, and botanical art. His works are distinguished by bold lines, vibrant acid-bright colors, and a rock’n’roll edge that pay homage to his love for gig posters and dynamic visual storytelling. Trained at the Faculty of Visual Arts of Goiás, de Castro skillfully bridges popular and avant-garde genres, merging Brazilian heritage with global aesthetics.

His art is not just visually arresting; it delves into profound themes of post-modern existentialism and global social issues. His compositions often juxtapose real-life elements with surreal, illusory worlds, populated by anthropomorphic creatures, tropical landscapes, and enigmatic narratives. This tension between reality and fantasy invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of human experience.

A Global Artistic Footprint

Known for his large-scale murals teeming with intricate details, de Castro’s works adorn cityscapes in major cultural hubs like London, Berlin, Hong Kong, Miami, Las Vegas, and São Paulo. Each mural reflects his ability to adapt his neo-tropicália style to diverse urban settings, creating a dialogue between his art and its environment.
De Castro’s creative reach extends beyond traditional art forms. His collaborations with brands like Nike, Comme des Garçons, Vans, and the NBA showcase his versatility in translating his artistic vision into consumer products. Notably, his collaborations with bands such as Beck, Kings of Leon, and The Killers illustrate his knack for blending music and art, resulting in visuals that resonate with audiences globally.

Rooted in Goiânia’s Rich Heritage

Living and working in Goiânia, a city renowned for its lush green spaces and cultural depth, profoundly shapes de Castro’s artistry. This connection to his roots infuses his work with a sense of place, grounding his explorations of global and existential themes in a uniquely Brazilian context.

Douglas de Castro’s art embodies the spirit of experimentation and cultural synthesis. Whether through his murals, illustrations, or collaborative projects, he continues to captivate audiences and redefine what it means to be a contemporary artist. His work not only celebrates Brazilian culture but also contributes to a global artistic dialogue, making him a true visionary in today’s art world.

Whether through his murals, illustrations, or collaborative projects, he continues to captivate audiences and redefine what it means to be a contemporary artist. His work not only celebrates Brazilian culture but also contributes to a global artistic dialogue, making him a true visionary in today’s art world.