Artist Alley values inclusion and talents at the 28th Pan-Amazonian Book Fair
Space brings together 18 Pará artists with original productions that highlight regional diversity and creativity
The 28th Pan-Amazonian Book Fair and Multivoices, held from August 16 to 22, 2025, at Hangar – Center for Conventions and Fairs of the Amazon, in Belém, presents to the public the Artist Alley, a space that consolidates as a showcase for original and inclusive production. This year, 18 artists were selected through a public notice to exhibit and sell their works, promoting the exchange of experiences and the appreciation of local culture.
Diversity space
Comic artists, illustrators, visual artists, and miniature creators share original works with the public, reinforcing the cultural identity of Pará and the creative potential of the region. The space highlights the democratization of access and the plurality of voices that characterize the Fair, considered the largest literary event in the Amazon.
Overcoming and inspiration
Among the participants is illustrator and comic book author Lucas Quaresma, diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in childhood. His journey is marked by the use of drawing as a form of communication and expression.
According to Elaine Quaresma, mother and scriptwriter of the comics, the path was challenging.
“The diagnosis was quite severe, and it was necessary to seek a lot of information to understand the subject, as well as to look for treatment outside of Belém. It was a very difficult time, but I believe that all the effort made for Lucas's development could be repeated by other parents,” she stated.
Lucas found in comics a way to translate his view of the world. With stories that navigate between adventure and social awareness, the young artist keeps records of his production since childhood. For him, participating in the Fair is confirmation that inclusion and representation have a place.
“I am very happy to participate in another edition of the Book Fair. It crowns all my work. This shows that we can occupy any space,” he emphasized.
Public recognition
Educator Lilian Oliveira, with experience in special education, visited Lucas's booth and highlighted the importance of his presence at the event.
“You observe the productions and see the world through them. A person with ASD usually has difficulty expressing feelings, but when they can draw, parents already understand. This is very significant,” she said.
She added that the young comic artist's work is also an encouragement for other children.
“Comics are a textual genre. When a child consumes the production of someone they identify with, it serves as an incentive for development,” she completed.
Artist Alley - Created to bring the public closer to original productions, the Artist Alley strengthens the cultural scene of Pará and reaffirms the Pan-Amazonian Book Fair as a space for inclusion, diversity, and promotion of local talent.
