When I was first approached to design the shirt for our capoeira group‘s yearly event, I was thrilled. I’ve known our leaders, Mestres Bergingela and Grilo Preto, for over 20 years. (Yes, I know that makes me sound ancient, but hey, age is just a number… or so I keep telling my ankles.)
I jumped right in, sketching on the iPad, trying to come up with some solid ideas.
Ideas flowed, pixels followed.
Once I was happy with a few initial concepts, I worked to add enough detail to convey my ideas properly. I presented four concepts and was overjoyed by the positive feedback.
Inspiration in Every Ginga
I wanted the shirt to capture that spirit: the rhythm of the instruments, the graceful flow of the players, and the community vibe that capoeira embodies. So, I sketched out a scene with players in the street, surrounded by a ring of silhouetted onlookers. I also added some personal touches specific to our group—like the backdrop of the mountains and elements reminiscent of our monthly Art District events. I wanted the shirt to reflect that feeling of being part of something bigger, of dancing and playing in harmony with friends, both old and new.
We finalized the design, sent it off to Indy Ink (one of my favorite printers), and eagerly awaited the event.
The Big Reveal
The day of the event finally arrived, and let me tell you, there is nothing—nothing—like seeing a sea of people wearing something you created. Watching all the visiting students and teachers, from places far and wide, donning my design was surreal. It was like watching a piece of my heart beat across the entire event.
Seeing everyone move, laugh, and play in those shirts brought my little creation to life in a way I hadn’t fully imagined. It was as if my design was dancing right along with them, echoing every ginga, every au (cartwheel), every joyous song.
Lessons from the Street
While I fade in and out of being able to train, capoeira is always intertwined in my life. Designing this shirt wasn’t just about making something cool (though, let’s face it, it is pretty cool). It was about contributing to a tapestry that’s been weaving itself since the first time I set foot in that roda. It was about honoring those 20-plus years with Bergingela and Grilo Preto, celebrating the rhythm and movement that capoeira has taught me.
So, if you ever find yourself in the Santa Fe Art neighborhood during First Friday, swing by. You might just see the group playing, surrounded by friends, ready to welcome you.
