There are people that find the culture of our Jequitinhonha Valley ugly: our music, our pottery, our fabrics. It is because they don’t know our art, and it is not very often exhibited. I did this drawing because I visited a place named “Astonished.” In this place, crafts are shown on the streets, and everyone teaches their children. I found it beautiful. That is a window of our history and culture. I am another one–I want to be a window for my people.

My parents’ names are Ercilio Gomes dos Santos (father) and Ilma Gomes dos Santos (mother). I like helping my mother and shopping. I also like my family, playing, taking part in projects, Chorus, and studying. I don’t like to argue with my friends, and I don’t like it when people hurt me. I also don’t like being sick. When I have free time, I like to watch television, play with my friends, and visit relatives. I hope to remain in the Chorus, travel, and be able to make things better.