A tribute to Sebastião Salgado 1944-2025
It is with deep and profound sadness that we learned of the death of photographer, Instituto Terra co-founder, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, and our dear friend, Sebastião Ribeiro Salgado, who passed at the age of 81.
Salgado was a visionary photographer and humanitarian whose work profoundly shaped our understanding of the world.
His striking black-and-white images captured the dignity, resilience, and struggles of people and places often overlooked, leaving a lasting impact on the fields of photography, environmental advocacy, and social justice. His legacy goes far beyond the lens—he was a storyteller of humanity at its rawest and most resilient.
As we reflect on his life and remarkable contributions, let us also recognize the values he championed: compassion, truth, and a commitment to shining light on the world’s unseen corners. Salgado’s influence will continue to guide and inspire those of us who believe in the power of visual storytelling to affect change.
In 2020, Zurich Insurance proudly partnered with Instituto Terra, supporting its ambitious mission to reforest and restore Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. This partnership reflects our long-term commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. As we mourn Sebastião’s passing, we reaffirm our dedication to this vital work. Instituto Terra will continue to have our full support, ensuring that his legacy endures and flourishes for generations to come.
We honor his memory and extend our deepest condolences to his family and all those whose lives he touched through his extraordinary vision.
Sebastião Salgado's groundbreaking photo exhibition - Amazônia
