This work was born as a tribute to the ancestry that sustains us all. Hand-sculpted from clay from the Jequitinhonha Valley, Indigenous Woman – The Mother of Brazil celebrates the original woman as a symbol of strength, care, and the continuity of life.

The mother figure, carrying her child with firmness and serenity, represents the transmission of knowledge, affection, and resilience. The maracá in her hand — a traditional Indigenous ceremonial rattle — calls upon ancestral memory and the energy of the earth, while the necklaces, earrings, and body paintings express identity, protection, and spiritual connection.

The natural pigments — extracted from the same earth that sustains my work — bring vibrant colors that evoke the richness of Indigenous rituals and the beauty of Indigenous culture. The red painted across her face symbolizes strength and belonging. The feathers and flowers adorning her head remind us that all creation is deeply rooted in nature.

Through this sculpture, I seek to reaffirm the importance of recognizing that the history of Brazil begins with Indigenous nations. As I sculpt each detail, I feel that I am telling not only an ancient story, but also offering a call to honor those who came before us and to continue planting respect and dignity for future generations.