Brazilian university studies explore art therapy for foster children and fashion politics of Black identity

A recent final course project at the Federal University of Paraíba examined how visual‑art activities can enhance the expressiveness and emotional development of children and adolescents living in institutional foster homes in João Pessoa. Using action‑research methods, the study found that artistic engagement nurtures sensitivity, critical thinking and the ability to attribute meaning to reality for these vulnerable youths.

A dissertation from the Federal University of Bahia investigated the “Geração Tombamento,” a Brazilian movement that uses fashion, hair, makeup and body aesthetics to challenge structural racism and assert Black cultural identity. Through bibliographic review and field interviews, the research highlights how this generation reconstructs aesthetic norms and political discourse, linking body politics to broader social resistance.

Both works reflect emerging academic interest in using culture and the body as sites of empowerment and social critique within Brazil.