In 2004, I spent 5 months in Brazil learning how to speak Portuguese. I worked with two different organizations teaching ceramics to youth from the favellas of Rio, the Escolar de Espectaculo and Officina de Outeiro.

Escolar de Espectaculo was a organization created by Gringo- (a nick name) Cardia, a Brazilian set designer. Gringo was working on many social development projects in Rio as a consultant, but his organization was looking for a ceramic teacher! Bingo- I got myself a job teaching ceramics to youth from one of the oldest Favellas in Rio, called Providencia. It was a great way to practice my skills in Portuguese, and share with these kids ideas from around the world. We explored how Brazil is influenced by African Heritage and culture.