YO BOZAR

Serving as a placemaking consultant from SumProject, Maria, contributed her expertise to the creation of the dynamic project "Yobozar" at Bozar Plein Air. In the summer of 2017, the Centre for Fine Arts in Brussels enlivened its surroundings with a pop-up summer bar and a range of engaging activities at Place Baron Horta, adjacent to BOZAR. This collaborative effort between BOZAR and visit.brussels brought forth a vibrant celebration of hip-hop during the summer. Originating in the streets of New York in the 1970s, hip-hop has evolved into a global cultural phenomenon, and successive generations in Brussels have played a vital role in enriching this movement through dance, graffiti, Djing, and rap.

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The project was a key component of MIXITY.brussels 2017, offering an immersive exhibition that provided a comprehensive overview of 35 years of hip-hop creativity in the capital. Beyond showcasing major periods in Brussels' hip-hop history, the exhibition engaged visitors in the hip-hop experience itself. The project ensured the seamless integration of a swimming pool, a skate park with free tutorials by Skateboarders, a graffiti wall project by the M.U.R. and films projected in collaboration with System_D. The initiative by Pool is Cool brought back outdoor swimming to Brussels, creating a social hub and advocating for the city's quality of life. This dynamic fusion of hip-hop culture, art, and community engagement extended the cultural celebration throughout Brussels, making "Yobozar" a testament to the diverse and evolving nature of hip-hop culture.

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