Often overlooked entirely when considering the geography of South Asia, the Maldives is generally underserved by communities that highlight South Asian work. Last night, however, a Dhivehi artists’ showcase was presented as part of an event by SAAG Anthology, a digital arts and media platform focused on the region.
The IG Live event, titled “In Grief, In Solidarity”, was held in two parts. It explored the theme of grief as a radical act, form of resistance and a means to create solidarity, by sharing art and discourse to process and reflect on the challenges faced in the present global moment.
Part two of the event was held last night, beginning with a showcase of Maldivian artists of all stripes. Curated by Maldivian visual artist Kareen Adam and SAAG Senior Editor Nazish Chunara, the showcase featured art, music, dance and spoken word by a number of local talents.
Participating artists included Afzal Shaafiu, Aishath Huda, Beatz Crew, Cartman Ayya, DIONYSIAC, Eagan Badeeu, Firushana Naseem, Little Faratas N’ Monkey, Mohamed Ikram, Mariyam Omar, Mary Halym, Meyna Hassaan, Nashiu Zahir, Nur Danya, Rafil Mohamed, Raya Ali a.k.a. Echnoid, Symbolic Records, and Yazan.
Although the event was held live on Instagram, SAAG states that it will soon be published on their platform for all viewers to enjoy.
SAAG (South Asian Avant-Garde) is a dissident literary anthology, aiming to amplify South Asian voices and empower creative labour hailing from the region. It lays claim to revolutionary traditions that have been marginalized in the histories of South Asia, seeking works that show new ways of story-telling through experimentalism in form, function, and craft.
For more information, visit their website.