1. Project Overview
"Ocupação Terreiro," conceived by Alexandre Salles, is a multidisciplinary design installation showcased at CASACOR São Paulo 2024. This project is a homage to Afro-Brazilian heritage, specifically the symbolic and spiritual essence of the terreiros, sacred spaces that form the bedrock of Candomblé culture. As an architect and researcher specializing in ancestral narratives, Salles integrates cultural identity, memory, and sustainability into this evocative project.
The installation spans 141 square meters, using earthy terracotta tones and organic materials to symbolize a visceral connection to the earth and its sacred qualities. It reflects the interweaving of tradition, resistance, and cultural celebration, aligned with Salles' academic inquiry, Origem, Laços Profundos e [RE]Existência.
2. Design Philosophy and Concept
"Ocupação Terreiro" is a tangible representation of Alexandre Salles' ethos: honoring the past to inspire contemporary narratives. The space creates a sensory experience that invites visitors to engage with ancestral wisdom and communal spirituality. Drawing on semiotic research, Salles designed the installation to reflect not just the physical but also the metaphysical qualities of terreiros, creating a visual dialogue between tradition and modernity.
3. Materiality and Craftsmanship
The use of materials like clay, natural fibers, and reclaimed wood evokes the vernacular architecture of Afro-Brazilian communities. Collaborating with artisans, Salles incorporates traditional craftsmanship, ensuring that each element respects the cultural heritage it represents. The choice of materials not only connects to the earth but also emphasizes sustainable practices, underscoring the ecological responsibility central to the project.
4. Symbolism and Cultural Identity
The spatial organization of "Ocupação Terreiro" references the circular layout typical of sacred Afro-Brazilian spaces, promoting a sense of inclusion and introspection. The installation's terracotta palette reflects the spiritual and elemental ties of terreiros to the earth, while its open design facilitates a flow of energy, reminiscent of ceremonies that celebrate orixás.
This project challenges conventional boundaries in design by embedding cultural depth and storytelling. As Salles posits, it is through acknowledging and celebrating our origins that we build meaningful connections to the present and future.
5. Impact and Legacy
"Ocupação Terreiro" has been lauded for its ability to marry art, architecture, and activism. Beyond its aesthetic and cultural significance, the installation is a call to action—an invitation to preserve and celebrate Afro-Brazilian heritage within the context of contemporary design.