Created by WMcCann to promote the presence of black professionals in advertising campaigns and editorial content in Brazil, the Re_Modelar project makes more than 2,000 photos produced by black artists available on the Shutterstock platform, expanding the range of diverse content for brands and agencies.
Currently, the project brings together 15 artists from various Brazilian regions, who have already undergone mentoring and are paid by the platform for their work. More information about the project and the collection is available on the Shutterstock Re_Modelar page.
“Reaching more than 2 thousand photos in Re_Modelar is an achievement that reinforces the impact of representation. We remain committed to making the market more plural and closer to the diversity of our country”, says Matheus Monte, project supervisor and leader of the initiative at WMcCann.
The initiative emerged in 2022, during a mentorship for black women at WMcCann, created by Bia Lopes Maria to encourage professionals to create content that contributes to a more inclusive culture. In 2024, it entered its second edition, with international mentoring from Shutterstock’s diversity strategist, Steven Russell, through a partnership with the global program The Create Fund, which offers financial and professional support.
“Shutterstock seeks to maintain an inclusive and authentic collection, and Re_Modelar reflects this commitment, offering the advertising market a more representative resource”, says Kaori Abe, Shutterstock’s marketing manager for Latin America.
Created in a scenario of low black representation in advertising, Re_Modelar aims to fill this gap with content produced by black professionals, addressing diversity and authenticity. The mentoring program offers guidance in commercial photography, use of creative platforms and space to exchange experience, promoting a more inclusive base for professionals.
“Seeing Re_Modelar progress is rewarding. Each image is an expression of identity and experience that values the country’s diversity. It’s exciting to see what has already been achieved and what we can still do”, comments Bia Lopes Maria, creator of the project.
