e-Ansã.

E-ansã is an interactive dress that transforms invisible electromagnetic radiation from cell phone signals into a sensory experience of wind. By converting one unseen phenomenon into another, the project invites reflection on the pervasive yet imperceptible presence of electronic pollution, heightened by the widespread use of mobile devices.

The name E-ansã draws inspiration from Iansã, an Orisha from the Afro-Brazilian religion of Candomblé. Known as the goddess of winds, hurricanes, and storms, Iansã holds the power to command these natural forces. The dress pays homage to her spirit and symbolism by visually and conceptually intertwining religion, tradition, and technology.

The dress features a structure adorned with hundreds of vibrant red, orange, and yellow ribbons, representing Iansã's iconic colours. These ribbons, known as fitinhas do Senhor do Bonfim, have deep roots in Brazilian culture and spirituality. Originating in 1809 as religious souvenirs from the Church of Senhor do Bonfim in Bahia, the ribbons are traditionally used as symbols of faith, promises, and wishes. Today, they are commonly worn around the wrist, with three knots representing three wishes believed to be fulfilled once the ribbon naturally falls off.

By incorporating these symbolic elements, E-ansã bridges the past and present, blending cultural heritage with modern concerns about electromagnetic fields and their impact on human life.

Year:2012

COncept: Ricardo O’Nascimento

Fashion Design: Ricardo O’Nascimento

Electronics: Thiago Santos

THis performace won the CynertArt Awards