Bold motifs with history to tell
- Doca's work safeguards Marajoara heritage
- He considers ceramics as vital form of regional history
- Passing on the know-how of his craft is a major concern for him
In the heart of Pará, Master Doca Leite safeguards a rich heritage rooted in Marajó Island. Doca pushes beyond tradition to explore fresh forms, colours, and trends inspired by Marajoara symbolic motifs and expressions from Tapajônica, Maracá, and Icoaraci natives. He makes tableware and decorative artefacts that keep this traditional aesthetic relevant in the contemporary home. In 2006, his talent earned him the esteemed title of Brazil’s Number One Artisan in the renowned Top 100 Artisans competition. Each of his pieces is born from a journey in traditional making: from harvesting the clay in Paracuri river’s streams, to working it into vibrant artefacts adorned with bold designs and textures. "For me, pottery transcends mere livelihood. It is the cornerstone of my life," explains Doca. “The best thing that happened in my life was pottery—it gave me everything!”
Interview
- What makes ceramics such a fascinating craft?
- Ceramics is an ancient art. In my case, ceramics carry the history of indigenous tribes and are a craft rich in details and information conveyed by motifs and graphics.
- How do you innovate while preserving the heritage of Marajoara?
- The innovation I bring usually stems from my creative process or from specific customer requests. I always keep to a visual tradition based on Marajoara designs.
- Is Marajoara ceramic-making in danger?
- Yes. One of my major concerns is passing down the craftsmanship of ceramic art to future generations. We have not had ceramic teaching in Icoaraci since the early 2000s.
- What legacy do you hope to leave behind you?
- I aspire to be remembered as a guardian of Marajoara heritage, preserving and revitalising the rich tradition of local ceramics in Paracuri.
Doca Leite is a master artisan: he began his career in 1974 and he started teaching in 2003
Where
Doca Leite
