El Nodo is a cultural production centre that aims to become a mediating element between run-down, disconnected and marginalised neighbourhoods in the city of Saltillo, in the state of Coahuila, Mexico. The project is based on the concept of a participatory centre that is open to direct proposals from the local population, which sets it apart from traditional cultural centres run by institutions.
El Nodo aspires to becoming an integrating element capable of stimulating the cultural life of the surrounding districts and the entire city, and promoting permeability between different neighbourhoods and on a civic level
The initiative intends to connect and support people who are undertaking similar projects in different parts of the country and internationally, promoting networks. It is about cultivating a (mental and physical) space for the people of Saltillo to build and make their own.
It is important to note that the different stages of the definition and implementation process are developed as workshops, so as to build up a reservoir of knowledge that empowers citizens in the subsequent development of this and other projects. So far, there have been workshops on urban art, audiovisual documentation, guerrilla advertising and self-building. Similarly, the project development office has been opened up to students and professionals so that they can become part of it, and several people and groups have already responded to the call.
The operation of the centre is based on giving individuals and groups the leading role in the construction and cultural production processes. Rather than an exhibition space, it is intended to be a production space that can generate educational and creativity programs based on the concerns of the locals and citizens involved, so as to promote feelings of belonging and civic pride.
The definition of the master plan and the planning of the first stage was finalised in June 2010. Local groups from Saltillo will manage the project, with Inpublixpace, Control Zeta and La Matraka taking the lead, while Control Zeta and Straddle3 are responsible for the architecture. An important element is the participation of experts such as Manuel Rodriguez, Santiago Cirugeda and Eduardo Vazquez as advisors for the overall project.
The first self-building workshop was held in November and December 2010. It was managed by Fernando Carrera (Inpublixpace) and directed by Luca Stasi (Control Zeta) and David Juárez (Straddle3), with the the collaboration of Michele Pecoraro (Nosolopaja, Straddle3), Jordi Granada (Straddle3) and Carlos Alejandro Espinoza aka El Panda (Ájale). People from all kinds of backgrounds and experience participated in the workshop, including residents of the districts surrounding the city centre, teenagers from local gangs, students and young professionals. Local professionals participated in the more complex and potentially risky tasks involved in the process.
The project is being carried out with several sources of support, including financial support from Sedesol (State Department for Social Development, Federal Government), the use of the railway station and materials being provided by Kansas City Southern of Mexico, and logistic and in-kind support from Cemex. For subsequent phases, it is expected that there will be an increase in funding programs and that more groups and institutions will become involved. To be continued...
