Jasmine Okubo

Tell us your story – how did you get here?

My early years were nothing short of extraordinary, thanks to my family’s adventurous spirit! Growing up, I was in a constant state of exploration, hopping from one country to another, immersing myself in diverse cultures, and engaging with a wide range of societies. This upbringing significantly shaped my perspective on the world of creative expression and artistic endeavour.

In my current role as the founder of KITAPOLENG alongside Dibal Ranuh, I wear several hats, primarily serving as a producer and choreographer in this creative haven. Together with Dibal, our primary focus revolves around the performing arts and production house sectors. While I have made significant strides in this position, working in tandem with Dibal, I am acutely aware that there is still a considerable journey ahead to achieve the aspirations we have set for ourselves and our team.

One of the distinctive advantages of being based in Bali is the immense potential for learning. We’ve discovered that, in our line of work, we often need to take on multiple roles and wear many hats. It’s an environment that necessitates the ability to adapt quickly and learn on the go. Bali offers a unique blend of opportunities and challenges, and we’ve embraced this dynamic as a rich source of knowledge and experience.

The path to success in the creative industry is multifaceted, and our journey continues to be a fascinating blend of cultural exchange, artistic innovation, and continuous learning. We find ourselves in a constant state of evolution, and it’s the combination of these elements that makes this endeavour such a rewarding and fulfilling one.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

I find immense satisfaction in the creative process, particularly when it results in work that brings joy and inspiration to others. One particular experience that stands out is my work with a group of deaf friends; individuals who are often unfairly limited by stereotypes about their communication abilities and hearing impairments. Our collaborative journey aimed to challenge these preconceived notions, ultimately shattering these barriers.

Our endeavour extended far beyond the mere production of a theatrical piece; it was a profound exploration of values that held the power to ignite inspiration and promote feelings of happiness and accomplishment. The work we created together exemplified the transformative influence of art, demonstrating that the boundaries we perceive often exist only in our minds. Our collaboration was a testament to the profound impact that creativity and the performing arts can have in redefining perceptions and fostering a more inclusive and enlightened society.

In this particular project, we celebrated the unique abilities and perspectives of each individual, highlighting their strengths and talents rather than dwelling on any perceived limitations. It was a powerful reminder that, through the medium of art and performance, we can create narratives that challenge norms, shift paradigms, and inspire positive change in the world. The joy that this project brought to our participants and audience was a testament to the profound impact of creativity in fostering understanding, inclusivity, and breaking down societal stereotypes.

What impact have you made in Bali?

Describing the impact one has made is indeed a challenging endeavour, as it often encompasses a myriad of nuanced experiences. However, as I reflect on my journey and the vibrant artistic community in Bali, I find that our endeavours are guided by a shared vision – one that continuously seeks to breathe new life into traditional arts while preserving their essence. Through countless conversations and collaborations with fellow artists, we have delved into the intricacies of our creative pursuits, perpetually seeking fresh perspectives and innovative approaches.

Our collective mission extends beyond our individual work; it’s a commitment to inspire local artists and the younger generation in Bali to nurture their affinity for traditional arts through contemporary performance art. We are dedicated to ensuring that these rich cultural traditions not only endure but thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of the arts. Our approach combines the wisdom of age-old practices with the boundless possibilities of the present, and it is through this fusion that we aspire to strike a chord with both our local community and a global audience.

As of now, it seems we’ve carved a distinct identity or perhaps even an icon of our own, which is undoubtedly a significant milestone. However, my personal belief is that there should always be room for innovation and evolution with each passing year. Embracing change and adaptation is crucial to the vitality of the arts. By remaining flexible and open to new influences, we ensure that our identity remains dynamic, allowing us to respond to the evolving needs and aspirations of our audience.

In essence, we do not wish to tether ourselves to a fixed identity. Instead, we strive to be a living, breathing testament to the resilience of traditional arts in a modern world, where innovation and tradition coexist harmoniously, offering a bridge between the past and the future. The impact we aim to make is one that resonates through time, inspiring generations to come and fostering a deeper appreciation for the cultural treasures of Bali.

What does the future look like for you?

Painting a clear picture of the future as an artist can be a daunting task, as it often resembles a rollercoaster of uncertainty and unpredictability. Our journey is akin to a gamble, with opportunities arriving and departing in the blink of an eye. The value of art itself can be subjective, sometimes soaring to great heights and at other times, remaining hidden in the shadows. However, I am fortunate to be surrounded by an exceptionally talented team that shares my vision and dedication.

In the grand scheme of things, the future I envision is one where every member of our team can comfortably sustain themselves. This journey is not without its challenges, but it is our collective aspiration to create an environment where artists can thrive. As we look ahead, my focus is on refining and optimising every aspect of our artistic pursuits. The aim is to shape the world of art into a promising and viable career path for all artists involved.

At the heart of this vision is the establishment of a professional performing arts team that transcends our current capabilities. This team represents the future we are building – a future where we reach new heights and redefine our boundaries. The dream is not just to elevate ourselves but to realise our loftiest ambitions collectively. Together, we aim to make an indelible mark on the world of art, creating a legacy that inspires both us and future generations of artists.

What do you love most about Bali?

Undoubtedly, the heart of what I love most about Bali lies in its vibrant and captivating art scene. My profound affection for this island paradise began to bloom at the tender age of three, when I had the enchanting opportunity to witness a mesmerising Calonarang performance. The impact of that moment has left an indelible mark on my life, steering me onto a path of unwavering devotion to Bali and its rich artistic heritage.

From that point onward, my journey has been one of deep connection and resonance with the culture and arts of Bali. I’ve embraced a dual identity, seeing myself both as a local and an outsider, but always as someone who holds an abiding passion for the island’s arts. This love and connection to Bali’s artistic traditions have guided me throughout my life, influencing every facet of my work and creative expression.

As an individual whose artistic journey was profoundly shaped by the beauty of Bali’s arts, I continue to be inspired by the island’s cultural treasures. This lifelong love affair with Bali has become the driving force behind my creative endeavours, fuelling my desire to explore, innovate, and contribute to the preservation and evolution of Balinese arts.

What do you do whenever you're struggling for inspiration?

When I find myself in a creative rut, I’ve learned that inspiration often lies just within arm’s reach. Instead of seeking it in distant or unfamiliar places, I explore the depths of my immediate surroundings and experiences. This approach allows me to tap into the rich tapestry of life’s intricacies, which can be a treasure trove of inspiration.

I start by examining the people, places, and things that are a part of my daily life. Conversations with friends and loved ones, local experiences, and even mundane routines can contain hidden sparks of creativity. I find that simple interactions can lead to profound insights and ideas.

Additionally, I delve into the world of books, art, and other forms of media that have touched me personally. These familiar sources often have the power to rekindle my creativity and remind me of the beauty in the world.

Nature is another boundless source of inspiration. The sights, sounds, and sensations of the natural world never fail to stimulate my imagination. A walk in the park, the scent of flowers, or the sound of birds singing can all be catalysts for fresh ideas.

In essence, I’ve learned that I don’t need to go far to find inspiration. It’s often right here, in the everyday details of life, waiting to be uncovered with a keen eye and an open heart. By embracing the richness of the present moment and my immediate surroundings, I can overcome creative blockages and keep my creative spirit thriving.

Who is your Local Legend and why?

Peni Candra Rini, a talented young artist hailing from Solo, is undoubtedly my Local Legend. She is a remarkable vocalist and an experimental music composer. Her body of work is nothing short of extraordinary. As a choreographer, I am intricately tied to the world of music, and Peni has been a long-standing source of inspiration for me. Her compositions are nothing short of mesmerising.

What sets Peni apart is not only her artistic brilliance but also her ability to push the boundaries of traditional and contemporary art. She masterfully blends the two, creating a unique and captivating fusion. In many ways, she represents the spirit of innovation and creative exploration that I deeply admire.

Peni’s influence extends to the realm of dance and film as well. Several of KITAPOLENG’s dance and film productions have been enriched by her musical compositions. Her work has added depth and emotion to our creative endeavours, elevating them to a new level.

In a world where artistry knows no bounds, Peni Candra Rini stands out as a true Local Legend, continually pushing the envelope and inspiring artists like me to explore new horizons in our respective fields. Her dedication to her craft and the artistic community is truly commendable, and I feel fortunate to have collaborated with her on various projects.