Mariana Pinho

consultant & writer

Mariana is an established and highly respected Brazilian dance artist, with a portfolio that spans high-profile performances, international residencies and teaching across the UK. She’s earned her place as an ambassador of Brazilian dance and culture within the global arts ecology.

Born in Brasília, Mariana integrates sustainability into every aspect of her creative practice. With a background in dance, costume design and project management, she founded Gandaia Arts in London—earning multiple accolades. Her Sustenta Project, including Projeto Sustenta Carnaval, tackles environmental, social and economic issues by diverting textile waste from landfills and embedding sustainability in cultural and educational contexts.

A long-time member of the world-renowned GRES Mocidade Independente Samba Schools, Mariana trained annually in Olinda, Salvador, Rio and beyond. Since 2009, she has led Gandaia Arts, connecting UK organisations with Brazilian artists, embedding her work in the UK’s carnival, festival and cultural sectors. She champions culturally authentic Brazilian dance, working across continents to develop work in Brazil and premiere it in the UK.