Mário Macilau

This work has been kindly donated by the artist

Born in Maputo, Mário Macilau, is an artist and activist, widely recognized for his photographic work. Throughout his career, Macilau has cultivated a unique artistic style that elicits deep emotions through his choice of subjects and his profound connection with them. His work often portrays scenes where women carry children, but they blend into landscapes of fallen trees, reeds, and homes, creating an ethereal presence that simultaneously exists and fades, resembling fleeting memories. These evocative compositions offer viewers a glimpse into the emotions and stories of his photographic subjects. He is hailed as a prominent figure among Mozambique's emerging artists. His early life was marked by the challenges faced by many children in Mozambique, where he worked tirelessly to support his family. Currently, Macilau divides his time and artistic practice between Maputo, Lisbon, and Cape Town, and his work has travelled widely and been exhibited in many cities around the world.