Marcelo Alvares
Meet Marcelo. At 30 years old he’s found what most people spend lifetimes looking for – happiness. Little did he know ten years ago when he fumbled with his first embroidery that sequins would eventually become the key to his success. While Marcelo sews and designs at his “studio,” Bordados Imperial, he considers himself much more than a tailor.
“I’m camba! (from Santa Cruz). The most local you can get, let’s say! I create [these costumes] for the tradition of dance and music, to preserve the spirit of my city. Que viva Santa Cruz! ”
As a costumer, carnaval is undoubtedly his favorite time of year – when the dancers parade about in his designs and bright ensembles. Every year his goal is to outdo himself, to shine brighter and make something more brilliant.
“I’ve never going to leave this, I love this job, this life. This is what life is – color, dance and happiness.”
I Am Bolivia is a series building a photographic census of Bolivia through environmental portraits and short stories. All photos copyright Jessica Janoski Photography 2013, for inquiries contact Jessica at [email protected]
2 comments
Wauuuu futura primaaaa , this is the strangest connection I have ever had, the name of my page in Fb is IamAtlanta (Had it for a couple of years but just started posting … hopefully 1000 stories one day! )… as if we are finally acquiring a sense of presence of where we are are at last, letting the stories into our hearts to share them with others.
I hope to meet you next year, hugs
Btw
That is crazy! I also have been working on “I AM” projects for a couple of years, starting in Hawaii and Costa Rica – but I began posting with Bolivia because I feel there is so much to be shared here. So many stories from people who are voiceless, so many stereotypes to look past, missed connections…Let’s hold each other to 1,000 stories and more! Looking forward to meeting you as well and hopefully sooner than later. Besos!