How afro-Brazilian creativity inspires us
In honor of Black History Month, we're talking Black American and Brazilian creatives all month. I'm so passionate about shining a light on Black history and present; this includes Black people here and in my native country. I'm always ready to share what I know when people hit me with the “Black people? In BRAZIL?!” uh, yes.
Did you know that Brazil has one of the largest Black populations outside of Africa, and its culture is deeply shaped by the African diaspora? From music and art to fashion and branding, Afro-Brazilian influence is everywhere—vibrant, bold, and undeniably powerful. When we talk about creativity and branding, we can't overlook the ways Afro-Brazilian traditions, aesthetics, and resilience have played a key role in shaping Brazil's visual identity and creative industries.
Take Samba and Capoeira, for example—two art forms rooted in resistance that have become global symbols of Brazilian culture. The colors, movement, and energy of these traditions have inspired everything from fashion to ad campaigns. Brands tap into these cultural aesthetics, using the rhythm, vibrancy, and storytelling of Afro-Brazilian heritage to create captivating visuals and messages.
Emanoel Araújo was a game-changer in visual arts, sculpture, and curatorship. A highly respected Afro-Brazilian artist and designer, his work celebrated African heritage while challenging racial inequalities in Brazilian society. As the founder of the Museu Afro Brasil in São Paulo, he created a space to honor the history, art, and contributions of Afro-Brazilians, ensuring their stories would be preserved and shared for future generations.
Another powerhouse is Janaina Barros, a contemporary Afro-Brazilian graphic designer and activist who merges visual storytelling with social justice. Through her work, she promotes Afro-Brazilian identity and culture, using design as a tool for empowerment and representation in a country where racial disparities persist. Her bold, culture-driven designs are redefining Brazil's creative landscape.
Naya Violeta is one of the first Black designers from the Midwest region of Brazil to gain national prominence. She creates light and sunny clothes, with affection as the guiding principle of her work. Visual narratives are part of her imagination, as well as symbols of Afro-Brazilian religiosity. From the A-Aurora brand, Izabella Suzart has been presenting a new look at luxury in the Brazilian footwear industry. Afro-Brazilian identity is a central pillar of her business narrative, and with a strong political stance, the designer discusses contemporary themes and values, especially concerning common experiences among Black women. Her shoes are minimalist, clean and made with certified raw materials.
The impact of Afro-Brazilian culture on branding is also evident in beauty and fashion. Brands like Natura and Meninos Rei incorporate Afro-Brazilian aesthetics, textiles, and traditions into their products, celebrating Black beauty and identity in a way that challenges Eurocentric standards. The resurgence of African prints, natural hair representation, and Afro-Brazilian pride in marketing campaigns speaks to the growing recognition of Black culture's influence on Brazil's branding scene.
Afro-Brazilian creativity is a force that continues to shape industries, break barriers, and inspire new generations of designers, artists, and entrepreneurs. As we celebrate Black History Month, let's acknowledge and uplift the incredible contributions of Black creatives in Brazil and around the world.
As a brand and graphic designer, I help businesses and brands bring their vision to life—whether it's through branding, web design, or creative strategy. If you're ready to create something meaningful and impactful, let's chat!
