Ariele is 8 years old. She lives in the little town of Santo Amaro, right next to the white dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses. She was chosen to be one of the actors for a short film we had just finished shooting and had never been to the dunes before. Her eyes were wide open, admiring the beauty of the surreal landscape.

Her innocence is full of strength, determination and freedom. The kind of freedom that is virtually impossible to find in the big city. The freedom you get when you are in tune with Mother Nature.

When your personal possessions amount to nothing... yet you have everything.

Together, while smiling and being thankful, Ariele jumps on the horse and takes off. Riding around the steep dunes and lagoons. Confident and strong, free as a bird. A look of determination in her eyes. An angel. Free.

A constant reminder of freedom and innocence.

Thank you Ariele.