Apropriação e desobediência tecnológica: investigações sobre o design e a gambiarra em Fortaleza

Abstract

In this research, we present correlations between the concepts of "gambiarra" (a Brazilian term for creative improvisation) and design, illustrating the practice through activities conducted in the city of Fortaleza. The aim is to offer a critical reflection based on this context, making this research bibliographic, exploratory, and content analysis in nature. We seek to identify common characteristics, convergences, and divergences among these productions, highlighting Boufleur's (2013) studies that explore the meaning of "gambiarra," its various aspects, and how its meaning has evolved over time, shedding light on the conditions of scarcity and abundance that contribute to its emergence. It is observed that this phenomenon occurs in similar ways around the world, especially in countries of the Global South. Building on Eglash (2004) and Bonsiepe (1983), we discuss how the development of design and technology fields in these contexts is linked to these phenomena. We then provide an overview of how the concept of "gambiarra" has been appropriated and related to different areas of design, technology, and art, emphasizing its potential and qualities as a creative approach. To contextualize these practices in Fortaleza, three interviews were conducted with local practitioners who employ this approach. Based on the analysis of the collected data, reflections and analyses are developed using the categories proposed by Eglash (2004), Boufleur (2013), and Oroza (2012), highlighting the characteristics of the productions and processes, as well as the relationships between practitioners and their crafts.