"The Refinement and Delicacy of a Chavelha" is a collaborative project that began in February of this year, promoted by the Carlos Machado Museum in partnership with the Regional Cooperative for Solidarity Economy (CRESAÇOR). Its aim is to combine social inclusion with the appreciation of the cultural heritage of the Azores.

The project was inspired by two exhibitions at the Carlos Machado Museum: Cântico de Cor by Domingos Rebêlo, which portrays cultural and religious moments through painting, and Requinte e Delicadezas by Maria Jovita Negalha, focused on the art of paper cutting and floral creations using various materials.

The initiative involved institutions that support individuals in situations of social vulnerability, including the elderly and people with specific needs. Participating organizations included the Portuguese Association for Developmental Disorders and Autism (APPDA), Aurora Social, the Portuguese Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ACAPO), the special education class at Antero de Quental Secondary School (ESAQ), the Covoada Day Centre, the Fenais da Luz Day Centre, the Azores Alzheimer Association (ALZA), the Atlantic Association for Support to Machado-Joseph Disease Patients, the Augusto César Ferreira Cabido Care Home, and the New Elders program from Ribeira Grande.

Drawing inspiration from the two exhibitions, the participating institutions were invited to create their own chavelha do Espírito Santo, a traditional ornament associated with popular Azorean festivities and religious devotion. Throughout this creative process, participants showed great commitment and imagination in designing and crafting flowers and other decorative elements using diverse materials. These symbolic pieces reflect the cultural richness, community spirit, and diversity of the islands.

By showcasing the resulting artworks in various locations across São Miguel, the project seeks to foster mutual enrichment among participants, promote social inclusion, encourage social interaction, and strengthen a sense of belonging, grounded in mutual respect and acceptance. At the same time, it highlights artistic expression and the preservation of Azorean traditions.

Maria João Silveira – Mediation and Interpretation Service