KUCHING: Kulleh Comrades, a group of six indigenous performers has been invited to perform at the Venice Biennale on April 21-26 in conjunction with a gathering of international indigenous artists, curators and thinkers.
The group will perform on the opening night of aabaakwad (it clears after the storm) at the Conservatorio di Musica Benedetto Marcello di Venezia on April 22 and will participate in panel discussions and poetry readings through the gathering.
Aabaakwad is an annual indigenous-led discussion among those who create, curate, and write about indigenous art and has a global reach that contributes to the advancement of the artistic profession as a whole and enriches audience learning through thorough listening
This is accomplished through bringing together indigenous artists, curators, and intellectuals to participate in uncensored, accessible, and cross-cultural informal discourse.
Kulleh Comrades is an indigenous music project led by multidisciplinary Iban artist, Kulleh Grasi and the group is founded specifically for the Venice Biennale 2022.
“The group features experimental music rooted in indigenous traditions from Sarawak and the compositions incorporate folk songs, poetry and Nusantara ballads to create a striking soundscape that is uniquely Malaysian,” the group said in a statement yesterday.
The group consists of six performers of Iban and Bidayuh heritage; singer-songwriter and poet Kulleh Grasi, Iban musician Gabriel Fairuz Louis, musicians from the Dayak Cultural Foundation Stanny Benedict and Boy Nelson, emerging singer Jen Rossem and music teacher Matt Dalin.
“The involvement of indigenous artists from Sarawak at the prestigious Venie Biennale 2022 is an honour and an important opportunity in the ecosystem of indigenous art of Southeast Asia.
“Besides presenting indigenous music, visual art and literature of Sarawak and Malaysia to the global stage, it offers us an opportunity to expand our network and understand indigenous art and culture from around the world.
“We hope that Malaysians will come forward to support our voyage to the Venice Biennale,” Kulleh said.
Previously, Kulleh left his mark internationally when his book of poetry, ‘Tell Me Kenyalang’ was shortlisted for the National Translation Award 2020 and longlisted for the 2020 Best Translated Book Award in the United States.
The group is currently seeking sponsorship or contributions from the public to assist with daily expenses during their week at the Venice Biennale.
For further details on Kulleh Comrades at the Venice Biennale 2022, please contact:
kullehcruz@gmail.com
