Projeto OK.A

The OK.A Project – Estúdio Emme – March 8, 2013, São Paulo, Brazil.

It all began with the folklore of a nocturnal moth deeply rooted in the history of various Brazilian composers. This enigmatic creature served as a catalyst, guiding the development of our project. A powerful creative force emerged through the collaborative efforts of talented artists, including sculptors, painters, musicians, and performance artists, alongside the community organisation.

Driven by a genuine concern for humanity and its intrinsic values, two visionary female architects embarked on this artistic journey. Rather than being bound by the formal obligations imposed by the contemporary world, they prioritised the well-being of individuals.

Our art is reminiscent of the craftsmanship practised by the master artists of old, yet adapted to the demands of our fast-paced modern era. Our work carries a profound purpose: to ignite social transformation and foster a sense of unity. Through our creative endeavours, we aspire to serve as a catalyst for positive change, bringing people together and promoting a shared vision of a better society.

The Oca, a meeting house for indigenous peoples of the Amazon Rainforest, holds deep cultural significance. In paying homage to this indigenous wisdom, our intentional use of “Oca” echoes the same melodic resonance. It serves as a heartfelt tribute to the rich heritage and knowledge of these native communities. By adopting this evocative term, we aim to honour their traditions and acknowledge the vital role that gathering spaces play in fostering community, connection, and shared understanding. The Oca becomes a symbol of unity, bridging the past and the present and inviting a celebration of diverse cultures and indigenous wisdom.

The letter “A” holds deep symbolism, representing Love, Arts, and Architecture (Amor, Arte, and Arquitetura) in Brazilian Portuguese. This deliberate choice underscores the significance of these interconnected elements as a harmonious meeting point. Love has the power to inspire and unite and forms the foundation upon which the arts and architecture flourish. The letter “A” is a powerful symbol, reminding us of the profound connections forged through love, artistry, and the built environment. Through artistic expression and architectural Design, we explore the boundless possibilities of human creativity, celebrating the beauty and depth of our shared cultural experiences.

From 2013 to 2016, numerous events were held, with the Spring Festival being the inaugural. This festival a tribute to Satyrianas, a significant event that emerged in the 60s as a response to an oppressive dictatorial government. The project was born out of love, fostering community engagement and showcasing people’s talents.

OK. Events have always embraced a participatory architectural process, uniting space creators and communities through collaborative art-making. Each event’s curators select a specific art form to highlight, inviting the local community to participate in a manner that resonates with them. Musicians, poets, actors, visual artists, performers, parkour enthusiasts, dancers, circus artists, and more have come together to showcase their talents.

The OK. A Project has served as a platform for celebrating creativity, fostering community connections, and showcasing the diverse talents of artists and performers. It has brought people together, providing a space where art and shared experiences can thrive.