Art and Social Inclusion: The Air France Foundation’s Commitment in Brazil

In the Cariri region, in northeastern Brazil, young people face many challenges: social vulnerability, lack of opportunities and marginalization. Yet this region is also home to an exceptional cultural richness, notably “cordel”, a traditional Brazilian art form combining poetry and woodcut engraving, rooted in social engagement.

From February to April 2026, in Juazeiro do Norte, thirty young people aged 5 to 18 took part in artistic and poetic workshops led by two masters of cordel, José Lourenço Gonzaga* and Chico Bruno**. Supervised by the Asa Branca Educational and Cultural Association, local partner of Fonds Metis, they developed their creativity, self-confidence, ability to work in groups and to express their emotions. All essential skills to help them look to the future and consider a professional path.

The project took on an international and intercultural dimension thanks to the arrival of Seth, French mural artist and administrator of the Air France Foundation. 

Recognized for his murals highlighting childhood, imagination and resilience, Seth shared his universe with the young participants during a several-week artistic residency. Together, they created murals in public spaces, creating a dialogue between Brazilian traditions and contemporary art, and leaving lasting traces of the dialogue between France and Brazil.

"As an administrator and artist, I wanted to support this work of passing on knowledge, and to give young people the space to express themselves, to dream, and to enrich their minds through culture and art." explained Seth.

The initiative concluded with an exhibition of the young participants’ creations and the inauguration of the murals created with Seth, highlighting the local cultural richness and the pride of the children and young artists exhibiting their work.

It also illustrates the commitment of the Air France Foundation and its administrators, including Seth, alongside local partners, in support of cultural projects rooted in local territories and fostering expression for younger generations.

*José Lourenço Gonzaga is a Brazilian woodcut artist from Juazeiro do Norte. He is an heir to the cordel tradition, innovating with contemporary themes and a personal style, while also training new artists. He is now recognized as an important figure in Brazilian woodcut engraving.

** Chico Bruno is a poet, writer and columnist engaged in Brazilian political and social life.