The Colors of “El Nispero” Reframing Communities, Reframing Territories

Abstract

This documentary captures the color of the life of the Ma-Majarí of the “el Níspero” Afro-descendant community in the Colombian Caribbean. It shows its people’s warmth—so-called “nispereros”—their smiles, dance, houses, and dreams. Thanks to their people, organizations, and leaders, these voices that speak of identity, culture, and ethno-development have made possible new spaces for participation. The research shows its efforts to develop collaborative strategies and habitat construction systems applicable to the community’s life plans. From the recognition of the community, research and documentary have been oriented toward the contribution of empowerment and community social participation in constructing a route of cultural identity that allows communities to remain in the territory with dignity. The house, the home, and the construction of its spatiality from everyday life become arguments to discuss a project of cultural interest on a differential approach to habitat. Understanding the importance of orality spaces as an opportunity to find the other implies modifying the practices with which architecture approaches the community. The project uncovers the subtle relationships between intangible cultural and tangible social spaces. Sustainable social development could not be possible if this connection is not protected. Finally, the documentary talks about how to build an alternative development proposal for Afro-rural communities, overcome the social gap, and defend that another development is possible.