In the middle of the Brazilian Cerrado, in Chapada dos Veadeiros, resides the largest quilombola territory in Brazil: Kalunga, listed as a Historic and Cultural Heritage Site. An enchanted place of struggle and resistance, guarded by a people who live and work for the preservation of their land, tradition and culture, in complete harmony with nature.
In 2020, the UN (United Nations) recognized Kalunga as the first TICCA in Brazil. TICCA (Territories and Areas Conserved by Indigenous and Local Communities), a global title that requires a deep connection between the population and the territory, management processes and governance led by the community, nature conservation and the well-being of the people.
I was invited by Mattula Souvenirs to illustrate four scenes that honor the Kalunga communities present in Chapada dos Veadeiros. Designed to value and thank the true guardians of the region's waters, fauna, flora and culture. The illustrations were then applied in several souvenirs and are available for purchasing at the Chapada dos Veadeiros region. Part of the souvenirs helps financially the communities and, at the same time, value their culture, tradition and existence.
