SAMA SAMA: Transcultural Art Residency is a Connections Through Culture 2023-24 project, by Pangrok Sulap (Malaysia) and Bethan Maddocks (UK)
This UK-Malaysia residency explored global issues in Sabah, focusing on sustainability, identity, and resource extraction, and culminated in fundraising efforts to install water filtration systems in local communities.
Explore the partners' reflections and insights from the project
The SAMA SAMA Transcultural Art Residency Program is a testament to how art can unite diverse cultures, geographies, and perspectives. Beyond being a tool for change, it also serves as a bridge that connects emotions, philosophies, and feelings, transforming them into creative, expressive, and aesthetic forms. Rooted in a collective vision of embracing the spirit of gotong royong—working together—the program is not merely about creating art but also about learning, growth, and collaboration.
As our first attempt to host an art residency program, it has been an extraordinary journey. From the challenges of planning, as we, as a collective, had no prior experience in managing such an endeavor, to the inspiring moments along the way, this program has taught us valuable lessons about management, collaboration, tolerance, and trust.
The seeds of this collaboration were sown during the Borneo Bengkel 2018 residency program in Sarawak, Malaysia. It was here that we were first captivated and inspired by the works of UK-based artist Bethan Maddocks. Her large-scale paper-cutting installations opened a door for us to imagine collaborating with her. Her technique and visual aesthetic resonated with the woodblock printing tradition we had been practicing. From that moment, we sought opportunities to work together, eventually culminating in this partnership through the SAMA SAMA Transcultural Art Residency.
The foundation of this collaboration was further strengthened through our long-standing relationship with Catriona Maddocks, Bethan’s twin sister, who has been a friend and collaborator for many years. This trust and synergy with Bethan played a crucial role in overcoming the challenges we faced while organising the residency. It created an environment conducive to open communication, the exchange of ideas, and mutual learning. We are grateful for Bethan’s willingness to embrace the collective spirit of working with us.
Planning an art residency is no easy feat, especially when it is your first experience. Adjusting schedules and logistics became an integral part of the process. For instance, Bethan’s pregnancy was an unexpected development. However, after positive discussions with our collaborators, we adjusted the schedule and location to accommodate her needs.
Despite the changes, each challenge became an opportunity for learning and growth. With guidance from Catriona, we maximised the month-long residency, organising field programs with Bethan in Sabah while ensuring she could return to the UK thereafter.
One of the program highlights was our visit to Kampung Tinuhan, Tenghilan, Sabah, where we engaged with local farmers impacted by climate change and participated in cultural exchanges. We conducted workshops with the community on woodblock printing and silkscreen techniques, while Bethan led paper-cutting workshops culminating in shadow puppet performances. Similarly, with the students of Borneo Komrad’s Alternative Learning Center, facilitated by Bethan, the workshop provided participants with a comfortable and open space for creative expression. The fusion of contemporary techniques (paper cutting) with traditional art forms (shadow puppetry) enabled participants to craft their own stories and performances, forging a strong connection between the past and the present.
The most valuable moments weren’t just in the artworks produced but in the relationships built. “Make Friends, Not Art” became our guiding mantra. For us, art is more enjoyable when created together. It not only brings people closer but also transcends boundaries. We witnessed how art can break down cultural walls, uniting participants through shared stories, laughter, and learning.
