Traffic color - Arara Finalists

Title: Traffic color - Arara
Year: 2025
Technique: Digital art with fragments of Brazilian banknotes, euros and US dollars
This artwork presents a visual and conceptual narrative by merging fragments of Brazilian banknotes, euros, and U.S. dollars. At its center, a close-up portrait of the vibrant Ara ararauna macaw, featured on the 10-real Brazilian banknote, commands attention, symbolizing both admiration and concern for wildlife.
The choice of this bird is deliberate; it represents the duality of beauty and fragility within the natural world, particularly in the face of increasing wildlife trafficking. The macaw’s vivid plumage, so often celebrated for its exotic allure, becomes a metaphor for humanity’s desire to own what is extraordinary—an aspiration that frequently drives harmful practices of illegal trade and exploitation.
The title "Traffic Color- Arara" serves as an invitation to reflect on the ethical and social dimensions of this trade. While the macaw’s striking feathers inspire awe, the artwork prompts viewers to question the true cost of this admiration. By integrating currencies from multiple countries, it creates a narrative that transcends national borders, highlighting how global demand for the macaw’s beauty fuels its removal from natural habitats.
Through this piece, I aim to foster a deeper awareness of the complexities surrounding wildlife conservation. It is not merely an aesthetic representation but a call to examine the impact of our consumer choices and their ripple effects on the natural world. Ultimately, this artwork challenges viewers to embrace a more respectful and sustainable appreciation of the fragile ecosystems that sustain life.