Book presentation «O Sorriso»

With José Mateus

Type: Book presentation

In Coimbra, the city where the story begins and unfolds across two chapters, the author will speak about the parallels between architectural drawing and the writing of a book. On Wednesday, 22 April, at 18h00, Anozero hosts the presentation of the book O Sorriso, by José Mateus. The session, which is part of the biennial’s parallel programme, will take place at Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Nova, with free admission and open to all audiences.

The book tells the story of Bartolomeu, the author’s son, who at the age of 19 suffered a serious road accident that profoundly changed his life and that of his family. From that moment onwards, the book follows the difficult and prolonged path of the struggle for survival, revealing the emotional and existential impact experienced by all those around him.

Throughout the narrative, the family’s tireless struggle for Bartolomeu’s recovery is shared, as well as the inner transformation of the father, who assumes the role of narrator. From the darkness of the day of the accident to the moments when hope begins to emerge, the book is built as an intimate testimony of pain, resistance and reconstruction.

Along this path, various people cross their way — many previously unknown to them — who, by sharing similar experiences with positive outcomes, help restore hope to the family. O Sorriso thus becomes a starting point for a broader reflection on love, human fragility and finitude, the ethics of healthcare professionals and the fundamental role of hope as a transformative vital force.

During the presentation, José Mateus will also address the parallels between architectural drawing and the writing of a book, two creative dimensions that mark his trajectory. Born in Castelo Branco, the architect graduated from FAUTL and is co-founder of the ARX Portugal studio, with work widely recognised both nationally and internationally, and has also held relevant roles in various cultural and academic institutions.

Location: Mosteiro de Santa Clara-a-Nova

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