Lulu Luchaire’s Ondalinda, born from a small Havana arts festival in 2015, has blossomed into a global community celebrating culture and connection in stunning locales like Careyes, Mexico, and Montenegro. Driven by a deep aversion to homogeneity and a passion for preserving cultural diversity, Luchaire envisions Ondalinda as a “beautiful wave” propagating beauty, connection, and cultural understanding across the globe. Far from a mere celebration of art, Ondalinda offers attendees a carefully curated experience designed to foster genuine human connection in an increasingly disconnected world. Through dance, shared joy, and vulnerability, participants forge transformative experiences that resonate long after the event concludes.
While each Ondalinda gathering is ephemeral, disappearing like a captivating movie after its premiere, the impact on participants and local communities is enduring. Luchaire emphasizes the intentional nature of these events, describing them as meticulously crafted experiences designed to foster dreams, connections, and economic empowerment for local communities. Preserving cultural heritage is a core tenet of Ondalinda, adding another layer of significance to these temporary utopias. The self-funded nature of the project, Luchaire asserts, grants her the freedom to pursue her vision and take risks, evidenced by the successful expansion to Montenegro despite initial skepticism.
Ondalinda’s growth trajectory continues, with future events planned for the UK and the French Alps, each location chosen for its unique character and potential to inspire. Luchaire’s discerning approach to location selection, inspired by Steve Jobs’ unwavering commitment to his vision, underscores her dedication to creating experiences that resonate deeply with attendees. Human consciousness will be explored at the UK estate, while ice sculptures are hinted at for the French Alps, further demonstrating the diverse and evolving nature of Ondalinda’s offerings. The unifying thread across all locations remains the emphasis on fostering real-life connection in an increasingly digital world.
Luchaire has cultivated an all-female team, valuing the unique dynamic and energy that this brings to the project. Gatsby Moellhausen, Ondalinda’s scenography and set designer, embodies this spirit. Stepping into her late father’s role as art director, Moellhausen has embraced the challenge and found deep fulfillment in shaping the visual narratives of Ondalinda. Each event unfolds around a specific theme, most recently focusing on connection and gathering following the isolating period of COVID-19. The theme of Mycelia, the fungal network connecting all plant life, served as a potent metaphor for the interconnectedness Ondalinda seeks to cultivate.
Recognizing the growing demand for intentional experiences, Ondalinda strives to be at the forefront of this movement. By combining science, art, and spirituality – domains often kept separate – Ondalinda creates a unique space for exploring profound questions about human existence. This interdisciplinary approach reflects a commitment to fostering holistic experiences that address the intellectual, emotional, and spiritual needs of participants. The intentionality of Ondalinda’s approach is resonating with a growing audience seeking more than just entertainment.
The commitment to local communities extends beyond economic empowerment. Marisol Mercado Covarrubia, a Mexican designer with deep roots in Jalisco, curates a fashion pop-up shop at the Careyes event, showcasing the work of local artisans. Passionate about preserving traditional crafts, Covarrubia highlights the importance of supporting the few remaining artisans practicing techniques like horsehair weaving. Her involvement ensures that Ondalinda serves as a platform for showcasing and preserving Mexican artistry, while simultaneously empowering local craftspeople and promoting their unique skills to a global audience. This partnership epitomizes Ondalinda’s dedication to fostering cultural preservation and economic growth within the communities it engages with. The growing appreciation for handcrafted goods, both domestically and internationally, further reinforces the importance of platforms like Ondalinda in supporting these artisans. Luchaire’s respect for Mexican culture, Covarrubia notes, has been instrumental in providing Mexican artisans with a global stage. Rooted in the vision of Gian Franco Brignone, who founded the modern community of Careyes in 1968, Ondalinda represents a harmonious blend of global community and local engagement. Luchaire’s vision transcends mere event production; it’s a carefully orchestrated emotional journey connecting people to each other, to the local culture, and to their own inner selves.
