HPR Archive / 2026
O Canto da Cidade ( at the city corner)
Lucia Jost
About the project
O Canto da Cidade ( at the city corner)
As the long summer vacation of Rio de Janeiro kicks into full gear, the city beaches become the epicenter of the youth culture. From Copacabana to Ipanema, the iconic stretches of sand transform into vibrant gatherings, where young Brasilians meet to soak up the sun, the music, and are creating the unmatched charisma of the Brazilian Metropol. The sea breeze carries the beat of the latest baile funk tracks, the scent of cachaça, and the unmistakable rhythm of beach football games. It's a cinematic place where life feels its most alive and community, freedom, and self-expression converge.
The people of Rio, Carioca's you would say in Brasil, own a unique blend of strength, confidence, and sensuality that is infectious. The toughness and pride they carry, whether walking along the beach or hanging in the streets, speaks to the dual nature of the city: one of raw beauty and resilience. In this environment, the beach culture is not just a backdrop but an integral part of the city's spirit.
Rio de Janeiro is a city full of contrasts, where beauty and violence can coexist very close. The allure of the beaches and the glamour of Carnaval stand in strong contrast to the city's underlying big social challenges. Yet, the beach culture becomes an everyday celebration of liberation, unity, and cultural pride. It's a place for everyone, not just for tourists or rich people. A place to escape the urban chaos.
I have spend 4 weeks in Rio and most of my time at the Beach. With my Portraitseries "O Canto da Cidade", I would like to catch a glimpse of the extraordinary style and youth culture of this place. In order to give a sense of the beauty, the self-confidence and the cultural identity of today's young Brazilians.