A territory that, for years, was called home. Streets that hold memories, stories, affections, and struggles. A space that today bids farewell to concrete, but remains alive in the eyes of those who inhabited it. Thus was born the exhibition. “Looks that Speak”, the result of a photography workshop with 38 teenagers, aged between 12 and 15, attended by CCA Santo Domingo Savio, project of the Oratory of the Alliance of Mercy in the Moinho community, in São Paulo.

The opening of the exhibition took place on the last day September 20th, no Sesc Bom Retiro, and presented the public with images that are more than photographic records: they are memories, feelings and testimonies of those who grew up amidst the transformations of the community — now in the process of expropriation.

"It's very interesting to think that that photography course, which not long ago was taking place in the alleys of Moinho, has become this powerful exhibition. Each image tells a story and constructs a narrative about this space that may soon cease to exist—and which, for many of these young people, no longer exists.", explains the photographer and curator Rodrigo Koraicho.

Rodrigo, who has been closely monitoring the situation at Moinho since 2019, says that the idea for the course was always present, but gained urgency with the news of the families' removal. "We wanted them to photograph the place where they were born and raised, so that this memory wouldn't be lost. Today, these images become part of the city's history and the struggle of those who resisted here.", complete.

A look that remains

For the Alliance of Mercy, the exhibition is also a landmark of its presence and mission. There are 21 years old working in the community, the institution has always sought to be close to families in vulnerable situations, whether through daycare, of the Oratory or missionary presence.

"Seeing this work come to life in this exhibition is moving. It's an expression of what we've lived through all these years: a genuine commitment to people and the land. Photography gave young people a voice, showing that their stories matter and need to be remembered.", stated Elida de Freitas Fernandes, director of the CCA.

+ With more than two decades of mission, Alliance ends activities in Favela do Moinho – Alliance of Mercy

Memories in every click

For the teenagers who participated in the project, each photograph carries a piece of their own life.

Diego, one of the young photographers, spoke emotionally about his image: "I took a photo that looks like an eye opening and seeing the rooftops. It was difficult to climb to the top of the building to take it, but it was worth it. I'm happy to see my photo at Sesc. It means a lot to me, because this place will no longer exist. I was born, lived, and raised here. I had happy and sad moments. Now this memory remains."

Another young man also shared the meaning of his photo, taken in front of a church that marked his history: "This church helped everyone. I was an altar boy there and experienced many important things. Now that it's being demolished, this image is a piece of me that will remain forever."

An oratory where hope flourishes

The project was developed in Saint Dominic Savio Oratory, one of the Child and Adolescent Centers (CCA) maintained by the Alliance of Mercy in the Moinho Favela. The CCA is a socio-educational space that welcomes approximately 120 children and adolescents in situations of social vulnerability daily.

There, after-school classes offer workshops in reading, writing, arts, sports, cultural activities, and spiritual experiences. However, more than activities, what is offered is a space for listening, welcoming, and restoring dignity.

When art evangelizes

More than an artistic project, "Olhares que Falam" is a living testament to faith and hope. It's proof that God also reveals himself in the small stories, in the smiles and tears of those who continue to believe in the future, even when the present seems to be falling apart.

The images produced by the teenagers at CCA São Domingos Sávio will remain on display until November 30th node Sesc Bom Retiro, in São Paulo. Admission is free. Address: Al. Northmann, 185 – Bom Retiro, São Paulo/SP.