Magic Square #5 (1977) was built posthumously, following the instructions left by Hélio Oiticica in texts, plans, models, and samples. The term square, meaning equally a ‘plaza’ and a geometric figure, unveils essential elements in the artist’s thinking: the interest in public space as a meeting point, and the heritage of geometric tradition in his education.

Here, color – another essential element to Oiticica’s production – reaches an environmental scale by articulating nine cement walls, acrylic paint, wire fencing, and glass. The presence of natural light and its graduations during the day completes the work, modifying it at every moment.