PROPOSITION

This is a manifesto by, for, and with KALA. It represents our values. It outlines our intentions and methods for achieving a cultural shift towards collective movement in public space.

Our goal is to cultivate public spaces that enable ethical and inclusive experiences through innovative outdoor gyms. Accessibility is the cornerstone of collective physical activity. This work is designed to serve all. A watering hole to gather and play amongst one another.

We call in the realization of our embodiment. On this basis we invite you to feel, sense, and express. We ask you to take moments to sit, notice, and reflect. Together we will move as one, a wave of momentum for healthier inspired generations to come.



METHOD

Our methodologies are rooted in ethnographic, primary, and participatory research that enables community empowerment. Observing, asking, and listening to experts, leaders, and the core community unveils historical insights and new connection points to build from.

Guided by are values, we design for deconstruction, modularity, and site specificity. These approaches aim for more resilient, flexible, and contextual outcomes. Regeneration is our north star. 



MOOD

Mood follows action. Movement is our natural state. Stillness is our refuge. We embrace change as our guiding force, recognizing its inevitability and transformative power. With courage as our cornerstone, we boldly navigate the challenges of today to forge a brighter tomorrow for our communities and the world at large.

We want to celebrate the dynamic fabric of your community. How does your culture instill pride in where you’re from? What makes it unique? What brings you together? What keeps you together? What positively enables your perpetual evolution?

We are not re-creating the wheel. We acknowledge the broken systems. We harness its power by revitalizing its spokes.

We focus on swinging the pendulum toward holistic collective health and wellbeing. A counterbalance to the obsession of individual identity. We take collective responsibility for the care and maintenance of public space.

These values are not mere platitudes; they are its essence. In these turbulent times, we stand resolute in defending them, knowing they shape our collective future. This is our commitment, our DNA—the foundation upon which we build a better world.

NARRATIVE ARC + EXTRACTS

1 Change is the only constant

2 Courage cultivates change

3 Future potential is in the present moment

4 Problems present solutions

5 Collective questioning creates community

6 Community movement transcends

7 Public space is the instrument of collective rhythm

8 Play is our priority

9 Calisthenics are accessible

10 KALA enables beautiful strength

Change is the only constant

The world is always changing. Evolution is inevitable. Adaptation is life and death; it requires awareness, vulnerability, and humility. Our life’s outcome is determined by how we respond to change. Everything is malleable. Change is essential to building better worlds.

Courage cultivates change

Change doesn’t come easy. Starting is difficult, continuing is even harder. Change requires courage. Courage grows with confidence. Confidence grows with consistency. The more courage someone builds the more capable they are of being, handling, and facilitating change. Courage is a habit. Positive change is the result.

Future potential is in the present moment

Futures are in the present. Presence illuminates potential. Once the potential of a place is illuminated it’s futures can manifest.

How can we amplify what we’ve lost to normalization? We must excavate and celebrate what we’ve lost to the mundane.

Problems present solutions

Unique problems create unique outcomes. Instead of being afraid of the problems we must embrace the novel perspective they afford. Let the answers be obvious. Creativity thrives on constraints. Constraints create freedom.

Collective questioning creates community

Solutions can be limiting; questions are expansive. Questions move; they are alive. Learning is a collective act. We are bonded by our evolving beliefs. Beliefs are built by collective questioning. The momentum of this collective exploration brings forth new futures.

Community movement transcends

Collective movement is a sacred ritual. It fosters deeper social bonds, mutual support, and a sense of belonging. It binds individuals together in purpose and connection. This movement is a vehicle for collective expression, empowerment, and the cultivation of shared values. The transcendent nature of these experiences spreads these gifts beyond exercise into the broader community and culture.

Public space is the instrument of collective rhythm

Diverse voices blend into a symphony of shared experiences. KALA spaces are stages for cultural expression and social connection, where communities thrive through engagement and creativity. The heartbeat of our collective is where we come together.

Play is our priority

Play is not just a pastime but a crucial aspect of human development across all ages. It fosters creativity, imagination, and emotional resilience. KALA provides a safe space for our bodies to experiment and learn through trial and error. Prioritizing play is essential for a balanced and fulfilling life.

Calisthenics are accessible

No need for specialized equipment or any equipment at all. No more expensive gym memberships. These movements can be performed anywhere at any time. Using just body weight resistance allows for all levels and abilities to participate.

KALA enables beautiful strength

The name KALA comes from the origins of calisthenics in ancient Greece. Kalos Sthenos translates to beautiful strength. Our goal is to help communities build beautiful strength.

KALA emphasizes a commitment to collective consistency. Acknowledging that new endeavors take time to learn and benefit from shared practice. We must build a solid foundation gradually. This principle encourages embracing the learning journey and intentionally laying the groundwork for growth. If done with consistency, intention, and community we believe each persons’ beautiful strength will bloom.