Araquém Alcântara

Portrait, Canudos, Brazil

2015

Araquém Alcântara (b. 1951) is regarded as a pioneer of nature photography in Brazil and one of the country’s most influential visual artists, a visionary of the Brazilian landscape. For over five decades, he has dedicated himself to an unparalleled documentation of Brazil’s national parks, revealing the vast richness and diversity of its ecosystems. His images are not merely records of natural beauty; they serve as urgent manifestos, advocating for ecological preservation and fostering a deeper awareness of the fragile relationship between humanity and the environment. His work has become a national reference, inspiring generations of photographers and conservationists alike. Alcântara’s lens captures the symbiotic relationship between Brazil’s landscapes and its people. His work extends beyond flora and fauna, embracing the cultural expressions of communities living in proximity to nature. From the rhythmic processions of rural maracatu in Pernambuco to the opulent festivities of the Bumba Meu Boi in São Luís, he draws striking parallels between human traditions and the vibrant biodiversity surrounding them. His portraits of fishermen, cowboys, and artisans reflect a people in harmony with their environment, echoing the aesthetic concerns of Brazilian modernism while shedding light on the social realities of the country’s interior. With 47 books on environmental themes, 75 solo exhibitions, and numerous national and international accolades, Alcântara’s impact extends beyond photography into the realm of activism. His work provides visibility to Brazil’s extraordinary yet often overlooked biodiversity, crafting an image of a land both enchanted and endangered. Through his idealized yet urgent compositions, he aligns photography with a greater purpose—one that elevates nature as both an artistic subject and a call to action. As one of the most committed voices in defense of Brazil’s natural heritage, Alcântara continues to challenge viewers to see the country not only as a paradise but as a responsibility.