Photographers to Watch: Lipe Borges
A portrait of Dona Inhá, 94, from photographer Lipe Borges’ “Garimpo Project”, which presents striking close-up portraits of the elderly residents of Santa Luzia, a Brazilian neighborhood often overshadowed by its reputation but rich in culture and community spirit.
“The Garimpo Project” by Lipe Borges
In this month's "Photographers to Watch" profile, we are excited to showcase the poignant and evocative work of Lipe Borges, an accomplished documentary photographer from Brazil. Lipe’s “Garimpo Project," presents striking close-up portraits of the elderly residents of Santa Luzia, a neighborhood often overshadowed by its reputation but rich in culture and community spirit. Santa Luzia is also known as Garimpo (Prospect).
Lipe’s journey into photography began with a myriad of subjects, from fashion to weddings, and even launching the first photography school in his hometown. Despite his commercial success, his true passion always lay in documentary photography. The demands of running a bustling studio from 2011 to 2018 caused his personal projects to fall by the wayside, leading to a burnout in 2016 that made him nearly abandon his art.
Lipe rediscovered his love for photography right in his own backyard. Collaborating with Mestre Saúva, a local music legend, Lipe delved into the lives of Garimpo’s residents. Through intimate conversations and heartfelt encounters, he captured the essence of a community filled with resilience, tradition, and authenticity.
"The Garimpo Project" stands as a testament to Lipe’s renewed passion and commitment to his craft. These portraits not only showcase the faces of a vibrant community but also reflect Lipe`s deep connection to his roots and his unwavering dedication to storytelling through his lens. To explore Lipe Borges moving project, view the images below and and immerse yourself in the soulful stories of Santa Luzia. You can see more of Lipe’s work on his website at https://www.curiouslipe.com/or on instagram at https://www.instagram.com/olipecurioso.
Mestre Manoel, likely over 106 years old despite official documents listing him as 98, was a key figure in founding the first Mozambique Guard in Sete Lagoas, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Born in Rio de Janeiro, he has been a vital part of the African-origin Mozambique dance tradition. He received an Honorary Doctorate from the Federal University of Minas Gerais.
Sr. Bier, one of the neighborhood's first residents who arrived with the advent of the railway, was the keeper of its stories. He passed away peacefully at 85 in 2020, lying down to rest after a bath and passing away in his sleep.
Dona Dica, 93, was a caretaker of saints and operated an Umbanda house in her home. She is one of the few living healers in the community.
Mestre Ailton, the first drum master of Sete Lagoas' samba school, played a pivotal role in transforming the city's carnival scene. Known for its caricatured carnival groups with painted faces and gas cylinder percussion, Sete Lagoas saw a shift in 1973 with the founding of its first samba school, Mocidade Unida. This pioneering school became the origin of all other samba schools in the city.
Dona Lia Laranjeira, aged 106, celebrated her birthday on May 30, 2024. She owns a “meeting house” on a traditional street in the Garimpo neighborhood.
This portrait of Dona Inhá was taken at age 94; she passed away in 2023 at 99. A revered healer in the neighborhood, she was highly respected and sought after. She also cared for and educated local children, watching over them in the neighborhood square while their parents worked.
Dona Maria's grandparents were the ones who organized the first neighborhood parties at their homes.
Dona Zola turns 100 this year. To celebrate this community leader’s centenary, festivities will include lectures, storytelling sessions, concerts in the squares, lots of music, and community courses.
Mrs. Laurete, holder of the prestigious title of Congo Queen of Mozambique, the highest rank in the organization, is a cherished member of the community, carrying on the legacy of her family's leadership.
Sr. Antônio, a beloved member of the community and part of the family of the first Congo Queen of Garimpo, passed away last year due to renal problems.
Dona Native, who passed away in 2020 at the age of 86, was a founding member and the matriarch of the Mozambique Guard in Sete Lagoas and leader of the neighborhood community. She organized samba events during Carnival and led a group of "pastorinhas" during Christmas, a tradition that lasted for over 50 years.
Dona Mariinha, who lived with Dona Lia Laranjeira, takes care of the community's "meeting house."
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