Fileteado is a type of drawing and lettering typically used in Buenos Aires, Argentina. It has stylized lines and climbable, flowering plants, and it is used to adorn all kinds of beloved objects.
Fileteado (filleting) comes from the Latin word filum which means thread. Interestingly enough, it was Italian immigrants who painted the first ornaments on wagons, according to records. Filetes are usually full of embellishments and symmetry, along with poetic phrases, sayings, aphorisms, either humorous or roguish, as well as emotions. This style has been part of the culture of the Portenos (residents of Buenos Aires) since the beginning of the 20th century.
Many of the pieces were created as simple ornaments, becoming emblematic of the city. Many European immigrants were among its initiators who introduced Europe elements of what later became fileteado. The unique art form had its roots in Europe but was mixed with local traditional art styles. Fileteado was recognized as a unique work of art by 1970 when it was shown for the first time.
The images are used to relate back to the city's heritage and incorporate cultural and religious influences, which serve as a form of collective memory. It is seen as a decoration on urban buses and trucks as well as store signs and increasingly, on home decor. The technique begins with drawing, which is then transferred onto the support. Design themes include icons representing saints, politicians, musicians, and sports idols. Proverbs and sayings are also sometimes incorporated as elements of the designs. To finish the work, synthetic paint, colored varnish, and special longhaired brushes are used. The skills needed can be developed by anyone who wants to do so. Although formal education is not needed to develop these skills, this art form represents an opportunity for young people within the community who are at risk of social exclusion.
Nowadays, there has been a new generation of women artists participating in Filete workshops and the art form in general in the last few decades, giving the artform a new aesthetic. However, the artistic representations of Buenos Aire's identity are filet art and tango for some time now. Currently, the Fileteado porteno has become part of the DNA of the city, which is referred to as the Paris of South America, and has always remained attentive to trends. This style perfectly merges with the growing popularity of graffiti outside of South America.
References
(https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/filete-porteo-in-buenos-aires-a-traditional-painting-technique-01069) (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fileteado#Main_formal_features) (https://www.domestika.org/en/blog/8743-what-is-fileteado-porteno-and-what-are-its-features) |Subject=Art, Craftsmanship and Practices, Verbal Arts and Literature |Country=Argentina |SDG=(11) Sustainable Cities and Communities, (12) Responsible Consumption and Production }}