March 8, 2025 - Recanto opening at Narrativa

Saturday was a very special day. It was a day of celebration, marking five months of a process filled with emotions and moments I will cherish forever. My project Recantowas inaugurated at the collective exhibition of the Masterclass 24/25 by Narrativa.

Photographing my uncle João over these months brought me closer to him. And while this chapter is closing, this is only the beginning of a lifelong journey. I now have a book—a reflection of my gaze upon my uncle, my tribute to who he is and to his life. I feel immensely proud to add this book to the family album shelf and to honour the legacy of my grandparents.

I already miss the early Saturday morning train rides and the afternoons spent browsing books in Narrativa’s infinite library. The intense mornings where we all learned so much, where we were vulnerable and shared everything.

I cannot thank my uncle João enough—for existing in my life and for shaping the way I see the world today. For teaching me to dream and for always being there with his strong presence. For allowing me to photograph him without limits.

To Mário Cruz, for all his support, generosity, guidance, and dedication. For believing in me and encouraging me to apply for the Masterclass in May 2024. For the way he sees photography and the way he saw my photographs. Thank you, Mário.

To my family and the monitors at Cerci Gaia, for their support, availability, and patience throughout these months—seeing me time and again and always welcoming me with open arms.

To Joana Cruz, for always standing by my side in all my adventures, supporting me on multiple fronts. For always listening and helping me through the good and bad moments. For dedicating her time to designing such a beautiful book.

To my friends and fellow Masterclass participants António Saldanha, Cláudia Florêncio, Cláudio Fernandes, Filipa Fernandes and Nuno Silva—for all the conversations, shared moments, lunches, rides, and words. For opening your hearts and making this project your own through your generous words. For sharing your pains so transparently and for also listening to me and welcoming me into another city.

To Elisa Freitas, for her enthusiasm and encouragement to apply and for being my introduction to Narrativa. For seeing her as an example of persistence and believing it was possible.

To the entire team and community at Narrativa, who always welcomed me warmly in a place that feels like home in Lisbon. Since the Ciclo last May, I have felt embraced by an extended family of people who have always helped me with a smile.

To Diogo and Francisco from Peninsular, for their dedication and meticulous craftsmanship in printing and binding the book with such care.

A final thanks you to Miguel Pinto for making the most beautiful shelf to hold the book in the exhibition.

You can visit the exhibition at Narrativa until April 12:
Wednesday to Friday: 2 PM - 7 PM
Saturday: 2 PM - 5 PM

On April 12, during the exhibition’s closing, there will be a conversation with all the authors.

Photos by José Fernandes, Mariana Cruz and Joana Cruz