I am pleased to introduce you to my latest project, Nyantos Sabhe, performed during my residency at Rumah Hujan. Situated in the heart of Ubud, Bali, the "House of Rain" is a renowned creative sanctuary designed by Studio Jencquel.
I had the privilege of being invited to create a work that would narrate the essence of Bali, capturing its spirit through the mediums utilized and the stories they conveyed.
Drawing from my initial encounter with the island, I perceived rain as a benediction, a nightly ritual enacted by nature, cleansing the island of human energies, preparing it for renewal each day. It is a moment universally anticipated, where everyone pause to observe and express gratitude for the purifying rain, readying the earth to absorb and replenish for the coming day. Simultaneously, rain refines humankind, infusing them with energy to resume their synergy with Mother Nature.
Upon my return to Bali, I was confronted with an unexpected reality – the delayed arrival of the rainy season.
Conversations with locals revealed a collective longing for rain, both people and land weary from the dense atmosphere. Nevertheless, the locals persisted in their labor, investing energies with unwavering faith knowing that the anticipated blessing would eventually grace them.
Thus, my envisioned performance transformed into "Nyanthos Sabhe", translated from Balinese as "Waiting for rain", exalting this lived moment of anticipation, where each individual persevered in their labor, confident that rain, in a harmonious blessing of human-nature synergy, would eventually arrive.
After five days, the long-awaited blessing descended upon the land, marking the culmination of our collective anticipation. This project stands as a testament to the enduring connection between humans and the natural world, highlighting the profound significance of rain in Balinese culture, both in sustaining life and fostering renewal.
A special thanks to Erika Kurihara, Sunitri and the local community of Bangdam Sidem.
Matur Suksuma
“Upon stepping onto the island, an arid atmosphere filled with expectations.
Walking through, locals unwaveringly devoted to their duties.
Working, remaining, offering, awaiting.
They were told of exhaustion, yet dedication persisted.
Waiting for nature’s tears, renewal through purification.
Waiting. Five days later, the anticipation ceased with the arrival of Rain.”
