Brazilian children turn fallen trees into furniture with designer Gisela Simas

Galerie Philia's philanthropic initiative Philia & Kids partnered with designer Gisela Simas for its third edition, working with students aged 9-11 from underserved communities in Petrópolis, Brazil. Over several months, the children participated in workshops exploring nature, material, and form, visiting Marambaia Farm, whose gardens were designed by Roberto Burle Marx. Guided by Simas, they drew furniture sculptures that were crafted by expert artisans Thomaz Brasil, Tomé Peregrino, Cláudio, Paulo Pissurno, and Vinícius César using wood from fallen trees. The finished pieces—including a sculpture by fifth-grader Fellype, a lamp by fourth-grader Davi, and a coat rack by fifth-grader Eduarda—were exhibited at Petrópolis' Crystal Palace in May before traveling to São Paulo. They will be auctioned on 9 June 2026 alongside works by internationally acclaimed artists, with proceeds supporting the Philia & Kids initiative. Each student's piece is a limited edition; additional editions (2/8 onwards) will be produced upon sale.