Brazil has always been hot, but it’s going to be sizzling for the next few years, as the South American country has two major events on the horizon.
On Thursday, December 6th, ImageNation, Acrobeat and the Film Society of Lincoln Center presented CELEBRATE BRAZIL, “a music, film and fine art experience exploring the diverse cultural contributions of Brazil.” CELEBRATE BRAZIL was held at Lincoln Center’s Walter Reade Theater and the Frieda and Roy Furman Gallery. Sponsored by AcroBeat and the Brazilian Consulate and organized by Buzz Builder BMC, in light of the 2014 World Cup, and the 2016 Summer Olympics that are coming up. Both events are “expected to boost Brazil’s economic system, propelling them to be the world’s 5th largest by the end of the year.” At the event, Brazilian scholar and popular musician Beatriz Azevedo took the stage with Vinicius Cantuaria, Dende Macedo and Graham Hayes for an exclusive performance. I spoke with visual artist Cannon Hersey, who had some of his paintings on display – visit www.cannonhersey.com. He talked about how he appreciates the culture of Brazil and looks forward to going.
Brazil’s presence has grown exponentially around the world over the past several years, and it’s only getting bigger. In recent months, reports on how the population is growing in the countries rain forests was revealed; and last month the New York Times reported: “Tens of thousands of demonstrators fill streets of Rio de Janeiro to protest bill aimed at shifting big portions of oil royalties from petroleum-rich states along Brazil’s coast to regions across country; legislation would deal blow to city if enacted as it is nerve center for country’s expanding oil industry.” The people of Brazil are concerned about their lush land being tainted by the spoils of industry.
So, although there is cause for celebration with the hopeful dollars that will come into the country in light of forthcoming events, there are still concerns with the current circumstances as well. The ultimate hope is that the anticipated festivities injects new life into the system, enabling the country to thrive and help establish a stronger platform for prosperity.
I have had the fortune to visit Brazil on two occasions, there’s nothing like being on the beach in Rio during winter months in New York.
with love for Brazil
c-dub
