Nik Nowak Translates Java's Extreme Sound Horeg Parades into Sculptures and Photographs for Esch Exhibition
Nik Nowak, an artist, has unveiled new pieces for an exhibition in Esch, drawing inspiration from his study of Sound Horeg parades in East Java, Indonesia. These parades utilize mobile sound systems, often trucks equipped with enormous speakers that can reach up to 130 dB. Nowak noted the transformation of these events from traditional festivities to contemporary displays shaped by social media. The parades, which occur between Malang and Surabaya, utilize DIY systems crafted from dismantled Chinese goods. His exhibition features two sound sculptures: one vehicle influenced by Horegs and the US Army's Ghost Army, along with a ghost ship designed for aquatic parades. Additionally, he showcases analog photographs taken during his village visits. The exhibition, titled "état bruit," underscores the clash of advanced technology and DIY methodologies in global noise.
Key facts
- Nik Nowak's exhibition in Esch features works based on Sound Horeg parades in East Java, Indonesia
- Sound Horegs are mobile sound systems on trucks with massive speakers and LED panels reaching 130 dB
- The phenomenon centers between Malang and Surabaya in East Java, where Javanish is spoken
- Nowak created two sound sculptures: a vehicle referencing Horegs and Ghost Army, and a ghost ship
- He also presents analog photographs documenting village experiences and parade observations
- Horeg parades have evolved from traditional ceremonies to contemporary spectacles financed by villages
- The artist connected with Indonesian DJ Ican Haram of Gabber Modus Operandi at Berlin's Berghain in 2019
- Nowak describes the multidirectional cultural exchange involving Caribbean soundsystems and global influences
Entities
Artists
- Nik Nowak
- Ican Haram
Institutions
- Gabber Modus Operandi
- CTM Festival
- US Army
- Ghost Army
- Berghain
Locations
- Esch
- East Java
- Indonesia
- Java
- Denpasar
- Bali
- Malang
- Surabaya
- Jakarta
- Berlin
- Germany
- Luxembourg
- Rio de Janeiro
- Brazil
- Belgium
- Jamaica
- Caribbean