Art and Freedom
Muiraquitã Capoeira – Art and Freedom was founded in Toronto and descends directly from the group Arte e Liberdade ("Art and Freedom"), led by Mestre Bezerra. Before that, Mestre Marcio had founded only the Arte e Liberdade Toronto group under his master, Mestre Bezerra. At a certain point, Mestre Bezerra authorized Mestre Marcio to create his own Capoeira group and become independent.
Mestre Marcio kept the slogan "Art and Freedom." The choice of the name Muiraquitã Capoeira was inspired by the story behind the legend of the Muiraquitã, which fit perfectly with the idea of striving for something more refined. It is important to note that there are several versions of this legend, but Mestre Marcio adopted the one that, in his interpretation, best aligns with the meaning of Capoeira.
The Muiraquitã is a small carved artifact, usually made of amazonite, jade, or nephrite, representing animals — most often frogs, but also turtles, snakes, and others. It was produced by the Indigenous peoples of the Amazon, such as the Tapajós and Conduri. These objects served as protective amulets, symbols of power, and were also used as a form of currency in exchanges between tribes.
The most famous version of the legend involves the Icamiabas — the legendary warrior women "without husbands" — and the Guacaris, men who visited their villages once a year.
According to the legend, during a lunar ceremony on the banks of the Nhamundá River, the Icamiabas would dive into a sacred lake known as the Mirror of the Moon (in Tupi, Yacy-uaruá), retrieving green clay which they shaped into figures of animals. These amulets were then offered to the Guacari warriors, who wore them as talismans for luck, love, and protection.
In oral tradition, the Muiraquitã is believed to bring luck, happiness, and protection against diseases, and is even said to cure ailments such as epilepsy or kidney colic. It also symbolizes fertility, transformation, and spiritual power.
This symbolism adapts to the interpretation of each person seeking the most perfect form to create the true Muiraquitã. In Mestre Mendes' view, Capoeira represents this constant search for a more refined style, shaped according to the evolution of each practitioner.
Mestre Márcio is described as an educator and catalyst for social change, not just a martial arts instructor.
A technique that merges capoeira movements with deep stretching, emotology, meditation, and Afro-Brazilian dance
Work with public safety professionals, bringing capoeira's discipline and values
Foundation of two capoeira schools in Toronto, Canada
Presidency of the International Capoeira Federation
Advocacy for Olympic recognition of capoeira as a sport
"Capoeira is not just a martial art — it's a philosophy of life, a way of understanding the world through movement, music, and community."
