José Francisco Borges - 1935

A popular artist, cordel writer, xylographer and poet, J. Borges, was always one of Ariano Suassuna ́s favorite artists. At 86, he is still totally active in his workshop, in Bezerros, Pernambuco. Self-taught, he draws his images directly on the wood, chiseling the mould around the figure that is then inked and imprinted on paper.

With his own image coloring technique, the artist shows the daily routine of the poor, the cangaço, love, punishment from heaven, mysteries, miracles, crime and corruption, popular festivities, religiosity, mischief, always linked to the people of the northeast. In his native city, the Memorial J. Borges was inaugurated exhibiting part of his personal works and objects. It is considered one of the Living Heritages of Pernambuco.