Illustrating Music

Lavadeira do Rio: Illustrating Music in a Time of Silence

During the quiet months of the pandemic—when stages were empty and gatherings became virtual—I was invited to be part of a deeply poetic project: the virtual concert series #coraluspemcasa. My role was to illustrate one of the most moving performances in the series: the song “Lavadeira do Rio” by Lenine and Bráulio Tavares, interpreted by the vocal group CORALUSP 12 Em Ponto, conducted by Eduardo Fernandes.

The song was part of the repertoire A palo seco, a collection of works by northeastern Brazilian composers performed in 2021. The artistic challenge was to create a visual narrative that amplified the lyrical and rhythmic power of the piece. Each illustration was carefully crafted to echo the emotional depth flowing through the choral interpretation.

My goal was not just to illustrate, but to translate the song’s atmosphere — its ancestral pulse, its feminine strength, and its almost ritualistic cadence — into images that could breathe alongside the music.

The final result was a sensitive and soulful music video, launched as part of USP’s digital programming. You can watch it on YouTube by searching:
“CORALUSP 12 Em Ponto — Lavadeira do Rio”
Or watch it directly here .

Seeing my illustrations intertwined with this musical performance was a powerful experience — both artistically and emotionally. It reminded me how art survives and transforms, even in the stillest moments.

Credits
CORALUSP 12 Em Ponto
Song: Lavadeira do Rio
Composers: Lenine and Bráulio Tavares
Arrangement: Marcelo Recski
Conductor: Eduardo Fernandes
Vocal Coaches: Beth Amin and Silvia Cueva
Monitors: Dulcinéia Camargo and Dorothy Belik
Concept & Script: Carlos Henrique Ralize, Eduardo Fernandes, and Mariana Salmonson
Illustrations: Mariana Salmonson
Video Editing: Carlos Henrique Ralize
Audio Editing: Zeca Rodrigues
Percussion: Miriane Borges and Gustavo Godoy
Guitar: Zeca Rodrigues