I was invited to fabled Rio de Janeiro Oct. 8th to 12th for a gathering called HobbitCon. As with my very wonderful trip to Sao Paulo and Brasilia in June 2004, I was again surrounded by some of the most exuberant and passionate Tolkien fans imaginable, and I cannot praise them enough for the very special welcome I received during my few days in this most exotic of world cities!
It was always a hope, after the 2004 experience, that it might be possible for me to return, and this year it was accomplished, with dedicated fundraising efforts on the part of the local Rio smial of Conselho Branco (White Council), the Brasilian Tolkien Society. On the day of the conference, held at the Hotel SESC Copacabana, I was pleased to present a lengthy retrospective of my Tolkien art on slides, featuring successive versions of many subjects (eg. Rivendell or Minas Tirith), ably translated by my friend Rosana Rios. I also included examples of automotive and (recent) pastoral art, plus some of the castle paintings from the fantastic world of George R.R. Martin. Immediately following my talk I sat down with a beautifully hand-crafted, locally made guitar which I was loaned, to sing a few of my songs. I was deeply grateful for the very enthusiastic response on both counts, and most grateful to the organizing committee members whose hard work and dedication allowed me to be among you and renew our acquaintance so happily. All who I met and enjoyed conversations with during my stay are fondly remembered. I think Brasilian 'hobbits' (or elves) would be hard to match anywhere for conviviality or hospitality.
Very special thanks to Betina Dengler, who kindly gave of her time in order to be my guide and host through the days before and after HobbitCon. Despite a fair bit of spring rain initially, she made sure I saw the best of Rio's many and varied sights and attractions; everything from stunning Baroque churches, the Sugarloaf, the Carnaval workshop complex, Botanical Gardens, pan-Brasilian Festival, or mountain-top National Park--and of course those superb beaches. The tourist posters do not do the city justice; it is unquestionably one of the most beautiful and exciting places on the planet.
I came home very much inspired, and encourage others to put a priority on visiting our fellow keepers-of-the-flame in this tropical Wonderland! Obrigado!
Posted by Ted on October 23, 2009
