Fios da Ancestralidade

Origins

Rooted in my dissertation, this project traces the journeys and resilience of Black braiders shaping culture and economy.

Inspired by visual storytelling and deep research.

Journey

Research Focus

University

2018 – 2022

Inspired by visual storytelling and deep research.

Site Inspiration

Visualising

2023

Adapted scrollytelling to map cultural and economic value.

Roots

Tracing the journeys and stories of black braiders’ heritage.

A person with braided hair is sitting at a desk working on a computer monitor displaying a website. The desk is clean and organized, featuring a pen holder with stationery, a chair with a mesh back, and a wall calendar displaying an image of food.
A person with braided hair styles another individual's hair in a salon. The setting features a rich red color palette with a mirror reflecting the scene. Both individuals are focused, with the seated person using a phone.
A curved wall displaying numerous framed black-and-white photographs and text. The photographs appear to be close-ups of hands and possibly people in different settings, with some images accompanied by inspirational or informational text. The frames vary in style and size, adding an eclectic yet organized feel to the display.
A person with braided hair appears against a solid, muted red background. The upper part of their body is visible, wearing a leopard print garment with a decorative brooch. The lighting casts a warm, reddish tone across their face, adding depth and contrast to the overall composition.

Roots Begin

The storefront of a hair and wigs shop features two large murals with portraits of Marielle Franco and Breonna Taylor. The artwork includes text in both Portuguese and English, posing poignant questions about social justice and the impact of violence. The shop windows are boarded up, and the murals are displayed against a gray-blue exterior wall.

Territory Map

This map highlights neighborhoods where Black braiders live and work, revealing patterns shaped by segregation.

A storefront with graffiti-covered windows and doors, featuring various abstract designs and doodles in multiple colors. The sign above the store reads 'A Deusa'. The ground is covered in cobblestone pavement.

Flow Shifts

Tracking internal migrations, this section shows how braiders move within cities, adapting and creating new spaces.

An urban scene featuring a flight of stone steps flanked by tall buildings. Several pedestrians are walking, ascending, and descending the stairs. A signage board with text in Portuguese is visible on the right side. The buildings have multiple stories with many windows and balconies.

Family Tree

The Baobá tree symbolizes knowledge passed down through generations of Black braiders, rooted in resilience.

A large geodesic structure is intertwined with the branches of a tree. The structure is made of interlocking wooden pieces, forming a dome-like shape, and contains textured, triangular fabric elements within the framework. The tree is in front of a building with large windows, reflecting the outside environment.

Living Legacy

This section celebrates the vibrant cultural and economic contributions braiders sustain despite systemic challenges.