OUR MISSION
     The Brazilian Arts Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing cultural education and building community through the preservation and sharing of Brazilian culture. We provide low-cost classes in Capoeira, dance, language, and music, as well as perform across the city, and host events that promote education, good health, and vibrant culture.

OFFICERS
Mauricio Campos (President and Artistic Director)
Karima Wilson (Vice President)
Lupe Mendez (Treasurer)
Viviene Belza (Secretary)
Marjorie Cerejo-Esch (Public Relations)
Rhia Perkins (Grant Coordinator)

BOARD MEMBERS
Bill Brandenberger (Chairman)
Damon Bowens
Alvin Brown
Lupe Mendez
Karima Wilson
Neil Russell
Viviene Belza
Rhia Perkins
Marjorie Cerejo-Esch
Shawn Walters
John Denson

LEGAL COUNSELING
Provided by Shakira Cruz of The Cruz Law Firm

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
    Mauricio Campos was born in Sao Paulo, Brazil. In 2001, he established the Brazilian Arts Foundation to share his love of Brazilian culture and the unique energy of its traditions, dances, and music. He has led classes and workshops in Capoeira, music, and dance all around the Houston area including Houston Community College, Rice University, St. John's School, Texas A&M Prairie View, Texas A&M in Galveston, and the University of Houston.

    Along with his students, he is a frequent performer at local festivals and events such as the Bayou City Arts Festival, Tapestry of World Dance, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston International Festival, where they have been performing since 2000. He has been invited to participate in events and performances throughout the US and across the world including Canada, France, and Brazil.

    His role as artistic director includes developing and choreographing performances, guiding the creative vision of the organization, and leading and training the Capoeiristas, dancers, and band. Under Mr. Campos' direction, the organization has increased its performance schedule and range every year.

HISTORY
     The Brazilian Arts Foundation was created in 2001 to preserve and promote Brazilian culture in the greater Houston metropolitan area. In 2006, the organization established a cultural center in order to further develop and expand its program and performance offerings. Located in the historic Houston Heights, the center provides a home from which the Foundation offers the majority of its classes and workshops, as well as hosts events, and educational programs.

    Today, in addition to providing classes in Capoeira, Maculele, Music, Portuguese, and Samba, The Brazilian Arts Foundation performs at numerous events, festivals, and educational institutions throughout the year including Bayou City Arts Festival, Tapestry of World Dance, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston International Festival, and University of Houston.