Supported by the SAM Fund for Art & Ecology, Biennale Jogja XVI presents two artists-in-residence, food activist Marlinda Nau (North Mollo, South Central Timor) and musician Asep Nayak (Wamena, Papua). They both held residencies in Yogyakarta between 6-24 October 2021. This residency process allows for knowledge exchange between them and various parties in Yogyakarta.

Marlinda Nau met with Bakudapan Food Study Group and Pasar Tiban, two groups which are concerned with local food issues. She was also involved in the public programme “Alih Haluan: Aktivasi Karya Dapur Umum 56” (Turnaround: Activation of Dapur Umum 56) to present the culinary treasures of Mollo region, South East Timor regency, East Nusa Tenggara.

Asep Nayak had the opportunity to visit artists and communities in connection to his music and photography practice such as the Sokong! Publish Collective headquarters, as well as Angki Purbandono’s, and Akiq A.W’s residence. In another occasion, Asep was also asked to create a wisisi music workshop. Wisisi is a sub-genre of electronic music, extended from local music practice in Wamena, Papua.