The Caatinga Cacholote (Pseudoseisura cristata).

Project: Digital Painting Production
Supervision and Art Direction: Mike Azevedo

The northeastern cattle herder (vaqueiro) is an iconic figure in sertanejo culture, responsible for driving and managing cattle in the caatinga. To protect themselves from the thorny vegetation and challenges of the environment, they wear a leather outfit made up of a jibão (jacket), chaps, gloves, hat, and boots, ensuring both durability and mobility for daily work. The jibão, in particular, is a robust piece that shields the torso from scratches and impacts.

Interestingly, the name "jibão" is also similar to the nickname of a bird typical of the region: the Caatinga Cacholote, "casaca-de-couro" (Pseudoseisura cristata). This bird, known for its ability to build large and sturdy nests from dry twigs, has plumage that resembles the leather attire of the vaqueiros, reinforcing the symbolic connection between local culture and wildlife.

Special thanks to my friends Kevin Franciosi and Guilherme Motta for their feedback!
https://www.artstation.com/mikeazevedo
https://www.artstation.com/motta
https://www.artstation.com/kevin_franciosi