Death Project
Death Project Show (Sumba)
Death Project Show (Bali)
Photo Book
The Death Project is a multidisciplinary research and artistic project funded by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Indonesia, exploring the Marapu burial rites of the indigenous Marapu community on Sumba Island. Developed over three years of fieldwork and anthropological research, the project examines the complex ceremonial practices surrounding death and the community’s beliefs about the afterlife. Central to Marapu tradition is the belief that the spirit cannot pass into Parai Marapu (The Land of the Marapu) without proper rituals, which are carried out by the living relatives through a series of structured ceremonies.
The project focuses on the multi-stage burial process, which can extend over months and involves washing and dressing the body, animal sacrifices, and the collective transport of a megalithic tombstone to the burial site. The role of the Papanggang—a ritual specialist who guides the community through these practices—is essential, ensuring that each rite is correctly performed so the spirit can continue its journey.
As part of the project, a digital archive of Marapu artifacts was created, preserving visual and cultural data for future research and community use. The project also featured digital archiving workshops for the local community, aimed at building skills in documenting and safeguarding cultural heritage. The Death Project culminated in an immersive multimedia performance that incorporates elements of the Marapu burial rite alongside documentary footage, visual art projections, mantra singing, sound art, and choreography. The performance also features footage of the body-wrapping ceremony, archival footage, traditional and electronic music, and animations, layered with interactive video and video mapping.
2018 - 2020