Prado Da Fonseca, Robert: - Robert Prado da Fonseca, a macrame artist from a small town in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, grew up surrounded by the natural beauty of trees, rivers, and animals. This environment instilled in him a deep appreciation for the simplicity and interconnectedness of life, teaching him respect for all living beings. His connection to nature is central to his work, as each knot in his macrame creations is a tribute to the animals and landscapes that inspire him. For Robert, nature is not only a home but a wise teacher whose lessons he strives to share through his art.Robert's journey with macrame began during a period of personal crisis, when he sought a way to express his emotions and find inner peace. The act of intertwining ropes and threads became a therapeutic practice, helping him heal and transform his pain into beauty. His creations, which often incorporate elements of his gaucho culture and semi-precious stones with personal meaning, soon captured the attention of his local community. Robert believes that macrame has the power to transform lives and give purpose, and he shares this belief by teaching others the art form that helped him overcome his own struggles.A resilient and passionate artist, Robert celebrates life, the lessons from his avó (grandmother), and his connection to the land and animals in every piece of macrame he creates. For him, art is a way to inspire others to respect and protect the planet, while also offering healing and self-expression.