“Capoeira is art, dance, malice, philosophy, trickery, theater, music, ‘choreography and non-violence. It only becomes dangerous ‘in times of pain…” (Mestre Curio)
Martins dos Santos, known as “Mestre Curió”, began his journey with Capoeira at the young age of 6, under the guidance of his grandfather, father, and mother. His early exposure to this captivating martial art and cultural phenomenon shaped his path in profound ways. As he delved deeper into the intricate world of Capoeira, he found himself under the mentorship of Mestre Pastinha, the esteemed founder of the first school of Capoeira Angola. Under Mestre Pastinha’s tutelage, Mestre Curió not only honed his physical skills but also imbibed the rich heritage and traditions that are intricately woven into the fabric of Capoeira. This nurturing environment provided him with the foundation to not only become a practitioner of Capoeira, but also a devoted disciple of Mestre Pastinha himself.
He founded his school “ABC” in 1982, with a vision of providing quality education and support to underprivileged children and needy populations on the outskirts of Salvador. His dedication and passion for helping others have led him to expand his efforts beyond Brazil, sharing his knowledge and expertise in many countries such as Mexico, Ecuador, Japan, Switzerland, and Belgium. Through his tireless work and commitment to making a difference, he has left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals, inspiring a ripple effect of positive change across borders and cultures.
This individual’s commitment to education and social outreach has left a lasting impact on communities around the world. Through his dedication, he has empowered countless individuals and inspired others to continue his important work. His influence has transcended borders, and his efforts continue to touch the lives of many, fostering positive change and growth within various societies.
Now aged 86 (2023), Mestre Curiò is a highly respected guardian of the Tradition and philosophy of Capoeira Angola. As he continues to embody the spirit of this traditional martial art, his wealth of knowledge and experience serves as a source of inspiration for the younger generations, keeping the flame of Capoeira Angola burning bright. Mestre Curiò’s dedication and passion for preserving the essence of this art form have earned him admiration and reverence within the global Capoeira community. With each movement and anecdote he shares, he imparts valuable wisdom and history, ensuring that the legacy of Capoeira Angola endures for years to come.
And for those who try to mess with that tradition…
HELL NO. NOT ON HIS WATCH.
Mestre Curio has been fervently dedicated to advocating for the preservation and acknowledgment of African heritage within the cultural landscape of Brazil. His unwavering commitment to this cause has been duly recognized through his appointment as an ambassador of Brazilian culture. Furthermore, on a daily basis, he relentlessly strives to enhance the quality of life for students who are currently enrolled or have previously attended ECAIG. His ongoing efforts serve as a testament to his unyielding passion for creating positive change within the community and beyond.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 