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Rio Grande do Norte projects itself into the Atlantic Ocean, and towards Africa, pointing towards the deep roots we have on that continent. Its coastline, like all of the North East, charms whoever comes visiting. And its countryside, especially the Seridó-Acari region seduces who is passing by. Precious trees nurture body and soul: babaçú, carnauba, oiticica are some of their exotic names. Saints and countrymen take turns as the favourite theme for the local artists who are proud of their heritage and seat bandits at the Last Supper and sculpt saints with regional features. It’s the miracle and the privilege granted by the freedom of expression given to us through art. Above all, this state was home to Câmara Cascudo, one of the leading academics who studed Brazil’s folklore and popular culture. His contribution is priceless and today we lack a cultural investigator like him to keep track of changes that happen fast, forced by a contemporary civilization that is always in a hurry and doesn’t seem to care about its deepest roots, despite them being what allows it to stand so tall and sophisticated. |
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