Submitted by Lawson Schultz on the 2020 winter session program in Brazil sponsored by the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences…
Manaus, the capital of the State of Amazonas, is our first impression of Brazil. The streets in this neighborhood of Manaus are primarily one way. Cars and motorbikes can be seen and heard winding through the city, and unlike many cities in the United States, dense tree coverage can be seen randomly throughout the skyline. While the city has clusters of skyscrapers, most of the buildings are only a few stories high. Very few locals we encountered spoke English, but all were extremely patient and kind. Learning a bit of Portuguese is not only helpful, but also allowed us to express our appreciation for their efforts to make us feel welcomed.
Manaus is primarily a stopping point before we head off to a floating lodge further west in the Amazon rain forest. We spent the day involved in our first Plants and Human Culture and Field Sketching of Landscape Subjects classes. Following an introductory lecture, our group took a walk to a local park. The area included an amphitheater, pond, playset, multiple paths, and unmarked structures. As we arrived, a handful of adults were break dancing on stage, and the whole park was embellished with street art, some appearing to be more officially sanctioned than others. While in the park, we engaged in multiple assignments, all with the focus of developing stronger observational skills. Throughout our time in Brazil we will continue to hone our observational skills to remain present in our travels and add depth to the writing and drawing we practice.
