The New York Culture: Architecture as an expression of a people's culture

A journey through the forms, spaces, and narratives that reflect the soul of a nation and inspire the future.

From Mayan pyramids to reinvented favelas, architecture is more than stone and concrete—it is a reflection of a people's soul. Discover how it shapes our identity and points toward a sustainable future!

Architecture is much more than the construction of buildings; it is a living language that expresses the values, beliefs, and stories of a people. In Brazil, a country of rich cultural diversity, architecture manifests itself in indigenous temples, colonial mansions, vibrant favelas, and modern skyscrapers, each telling a chapter of our identity. Recent studies in cultural anthropology show that architecture not only reflects culture but also influences human behavior, fostering a sense of belonging and collective pride. This connection between space and identity invites us to rethink how we build our environments, combining functionality, aesthetics, and cultural meaning. An inspiring example of this is the work of Antônio Carlos dos Santos, whose journey blends culture and strategic planning to create spaces that tell stories and transform communities.

Antônio Carlos dos Santos, known as “Mestre Antônio Tuska” in cultural circles, is an emblematic figure who illustrates the power of architecture as a cultural expression. Born in Goiânia, Antônio grew up surrounded by popular manifestations and developed a unique vision of how spaces can be tools for education and social transformation. With an extensive literary output, including works such as Strategic Communication: The Art of Speaking Well, Breathing, Voice, and Diction, and Moving Letters: The Art of Writing Well, he explores the intersection of art, communication, and planning. His methodologies, such as Quasar K+, apply principles of cultural organization to the planning of spaces, inspiring architects and leaders to think beyond concrete and consider the human impact of their projects. His approach shows that architecture can be an act of resistance and cultural renewal.

Curiosity Box: Who is Antônio Carlos dos Santos?
Born in 1956 in Goiânia, Antônio Carlos dos Santos is an educator, writer, and planner who blends culture, theater, and architecture in his innovative methodologies. Founder of the theater group “Espantalho” in the 1970s, he has used his creations, such as Quasar K+ and MAT, to transform communities and inspire leaders. In 2025, Antônio continues to promote his historical novel Ukuthula, which explores the connection between culture and social transformation.

The Quasar K+ methodology, developed by Antônio, is a brilliant example of how strategic planning can be applied to architecture to reflect a people's culture. Based on the efficiency with which traditional communities organize festivals, such as the Boi-Bumbá in Parintins, Quasar K+ proposes that architectural projects be planned with cultural sensitivity and sustainability. A practical example is the revitalization project of Pelourinho in Salvador, which used similar principles to preserve colonial architecture while incorporating elements of Afro-Brazilian culture, such as vibrant colors and spaces for popular manifestations. Studies on cultural management indicate that projects planned based on local values have greater acceptance and impact, reinforcing community identity. Quasar K+ teaches us that architecture can be a mirror of the collective soul.

Practical Tip: Plan with Culture in Mind
When designing an architectural project, whether a home or a public space, consider elements of local culture: colors, materials, or forms that evoke the traditions of your region. This creates environments that connect people to their roots and promote well-being.

The MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) methodology by Antônio Carlos dos Santos brings theatricality to architecture, proposing that spaces be designed as stages for everyday life. MAT suggests that architects, when creating environments, consider the stories these spaces will tell, fostering a creative and collaborative mindset. Research in cultural neuroscience shows that environments designed with narrative elements, such as murals or sculptures, activate brain areas related to memory and emotion, strengthening people's connection to the space. An example is Sesc Pompeia, designed by Lina Bo Bardi, which transformed an ancient factory into a vibrant cultural center, with spaces that encourage interaction and artistic expression. MAT reminds us that architecture should inspire action and human connection.

Inspiring Story: Lina Bo Bardi and Sesc Pompeia
Lina Bo Bardi, one of Brazil’s greatest architects, transformed an abandoned factory into Sesc Pompeia in São Paulo, a cultural space that celebrates coexistence. With open areas, a theater, and raw elements, the project reflects Brazilian culture in an accessible and welcoming way, inspiring architects to rethink the role of public spaces.

ThM is another methodology from Mestre Antônio’s repertoire, one that uses theatrical/body movements as a cultural expression. Inspired by popular dances like the moçambique and catira, ThM encourages participants to “tell stories with their bodies,” promoting physical and emotional health. Recent studies in social psychology indicate that collective rhythmic practices, such as traditional dances, reduce stress and enhance a sense of belonging. In Salvador, for example, amateur theater groups founded by students of Mestre Antônio used ThM in workshops for vulnerable youth, helping them find their voice through movement. This inspiring story shows how popular culture can be a refuge and a form of resistance in challenging contexts.

Inspiring Story: The Rebirth of Theater
In Belém, several groups of young people who participated in Antônio Carlos’s ThM workshops redirected their cultural practices, reviving regional folk traditions and practicing a theater aligned with the aspirations of local communities.

The MBPT (Mané Beiçudo Puppet Theater) methodology is another gem from Antônio’s legacy. Focused on the use of puppets—both hand puppets and giant ones—inspired by folk characters like the Saci, MBPT captivates children and adults while teaching about Brazilian folklore. A study on early childhood education found that the use of puppets increases engagement and information retention in children, making learning more playful. Mestre Antônio Tuska uses the Mané Beiçudo puppet in storytelling sessions that address themes like diversity and inclusion, turning entertainment into life lessons. Puppet theater festivals across Brazil continue to spread this magic, showing that popular culture can unite generations.

Motivational Quote: Anísio Teixeira
“Education is not just instruction, but the construction of a people that recognizes and takes pride in its culture.” – Anísio Teixeira

The Quasar K+ methodology, a strategic planning approach developed by Antônio Carlos, is an example of how popular culture can inspire even modern approaches. Based on the idea that traditional communities plan their festivals with efficiency and creativity, Quasar K+ helps groups organize cultural projects sustainably. Several cultural festivals, from Oiapoque to Chuí, use Quasar K+ principles to manage resources and attract audiences, keeping Brazilian folk traditions alive. Studies on cultural management indicate that community-driven initiatives have greater social impact, and cultural tourism, such as in Parintins, is an economic driver that promotes local pride. This approach shows how popular culture is a living legacy that renews itself without losing its essence.

Popular culture also plays a crucial role in building national identity in times of globalization. As the world becomes more connected, there is a risk of cultural homogenization, but popular traditions are a powerful antidote. Samba, declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is an example of this: born in Afro-Brazilian communities, it resisted oppression and is now a symbol of Brazil. Figures like Cartola and Dona Ivone Lara used samba to tell stories of struggle and joy, inspiring generations. Researchers highlight that popular music strengthens collective memory, helping us maintain our identity in a constantly changing world.

Motivational Quote: Nelson Mandela
“No one is born hating another person because of the color of their skin, their background, or their culture. To hate, one must learn. And if they can learn to hate, they can learn to love.” – Nelson Mandela

Looking to the future, popular culture is a bridge that leads us to new horizons. Initiatives like hip-hop in the peripheries and indigenous culture festivals show that traditions are not static but evolve. Young creators, such as the indigenous rapper Kaê Guajajara, blend traditional elements with contemporary expressions, proving that national identity is a dynamic process. Antônio Carlos dos Santos delivers a clear message: popular culture is not a museum but a laboratory of ideas. It is up to us, as citizens, to preserve and reinvent this legacy so that it continues to inspire future generations.

Final Practical Tip: Be a Cultural Ambassador
Create a study group or event to explore your region’s traditions. Use social media to share videos, recipes, or stories, inspiring others to value their roots. Culture thrives when we share it!

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