"LUZ NAS VIELAS" (LIGHT IN THE ALLEYWAYS)São Paulo, Brazil. 2012
We had the opportunity to live in a favela with the Gonçalves family.
During the first few days, we realized of the possible framework made by the narrow and winding passageways that connect the up and low urban areas, known as “vielas».
The project aims to respond to this characteristic spatial complexity. By flattening the perspective, from a certain spot (anamorphism), the words «BELEZA», «FIRMEZA”, «LOVE», “DOÇURA» and «ORGULHO» can be read and framed by a flat color, equally covering all the construction materials, democratizing the space.
For us, these words are the best portrait of the favela.
Inspiration, transformation
Our portray of the favela were five words written as a reflection of our experiences lived there:
«Beleza» is the word used in Brasilandia to greet people. The first word that two people say to each other when they meet: Beauty.
«Orgulho»: Pride for the neighbor is something that’s missing in these communities. A feeling to awake.
«Amor»: Love is something we lived from the first moment in Brasilandia. A necessary word to break prejudices.
«Firmeza»: Strength is something they need in the everyday struggle. Actually they high five each other using this word.
«Doçura»: Sweetness of every kid who painted with us in every street.
Work process
In terms of process, one of the keys was the neighbors’ participation, who were adding fluently and spontaneously throughout the project.
All together, always with the kids in the lead, we were cleaning and painting the alleys. People feel even more proud of the resulting work, when they are the co-authors.