Authorial design
Square scarf
100 x 100 cm
Mixed silk
Digital print
 
The Xirê scarf (from Yoruba Shirê) was created by Thaís Muniz to reference Women of Axé who were fundamental in keeping alive an essential part of what we call Afro-Brazilian culture, especially in the use of the turbans. Women of Axé is a way to refer to the ones who are practitioners of Candomblé, the Orishas religion created by Yoruba people, but shaped and mixed in Brazil since 19th century. The women in the middle also represents the Baianas, “a complex image of black Bahian femininity that also has the potential to speak to the strength and resistance of powerful women of African descent, dominant figures in the commercial world, and leaders of spiritual communities” following professor Heather Shirey's definitions.
 
Little bouquets of arruda (rue) leafs, cowry shells, white clothes, covered heads, and photographs of handwritten signs Thaís took in Brazil with popular names and expressions. A lot of the elements in the print transcended sacred spaces, and became self-protection and self-care that people practices on their daily life. The woman in the photo is the beloved Mãe-Pequena Anita Costa, and the photo was taken by Helen Salomão, as a special request for this print. The graphic design was made by Marcos Almeida.