Session 11 - Art and Creation
Writer-in-residence, Kembali: Dia Hakim Khaeri
Engagement date: 25 August 2022
When I enter the room today, the makciks had already gathered. They are gossiping about a certain Ustaz's physical appearance, which is not unusual. Whenever there is a male presence in the room, something consistently shifts. They’ll not pass the moment to point out the inherent male-ness of a person, digging into a stranger’s masculinity.

Today is photo day. Haizad makes it clear that the session will be focused on the choreography, largely for photo purposes. The team is at full capacity today. There are the faces I remember, and some that I don’t. The cacophony of voices and bodies in space is a little overwhelming, especially packed in a limited, mosque space that isn’t usually housed for large rehearsals.
There is something about the awareness of the photographers, and the addition to the team, Lenny. New stimuli is being introduced into the space today, and it’s the point of the rehearsal where even as a bystander, things start to feel a little more real. The safety net of closed rehearsals has worn slightly, and the participants are feeling it just a little bit today.
However, none of that deters the spirit the makciks always have.
Haizad leads them into a more technical rehearsal today. There will always be murmurs emanating from the room when they are in the performance space. The uncertainty of a routine you’ve already grown comfortable with, a feeling I’m too acquainted with in my own practice.
Kembali’s practice space always feels very judgement free. They embrace the fact that there will always be mistakes that happen. Even with the fuss of photos, new props, phone calls in the middle of rehearsal, they seem to be one step ahead of everyone. They sense the misstep before me, and catch each other with a warm smile.
There is an absolute certainty to me, that they’re perfectly capable of executing the work.

By the end of the first run, they already lapse back into their normal selves. There is something extremely charming about that. I feel a little envious of that feeling. To be able to be yourself throughout a performance is a skill. Even when you are playing someone else. For these makciks, they don’t see a pressing need to act, or put up a front so jarring no one can recognise them anymore.
I always appreciate that making art that is community based always means that the experts are the ones who have to accommodate the community. Even when everyone gets equal privilege of a professional production. Particularly today, when everyone in the room is granted headshots, the realisation of an audience and a budget.
Even as an artist, I always manage to rediscover my own art form in a new way. The transformative experience of simply being involved allows one to relook at their passions, at the form itself. What they’re capable of doing, and what they want to do.





This piece is lovely - the makciks feel totally at ease in their rehearsal space, and that's honestly the kind of creative freedom you don't see everywhere. It reminded me of how someone might look up 925 scrap silver value just to understand what they already own, because there's something deeply personal about trusting your instincts and the process.
Older adults may experience dental challenges related to gum recession, dry mouth, medications, or existing dental restorations. Regular checkups help monitor these changes and identify concerns before they interfere with everyday activities. Careful brushing, suitable interdental cleaning tools, and adequate hydration can support oral comfort. Dentures and other dental appliances also require appropriate cleaning and maintenance. With personalized professional guidance, older adults can protect their remaining https://sherwaydentistry.com/ natural teeth, maintain healthy oral tissues, and continue enjoying a varied, nutritious diet.
A retractable roof can transform an ordinary patio into a versatile outdoor living space that adapts to different occasions. Homeowners can open the roof during pleasant mornings and close it when stronger sunlight or unexpected rain approaches. This flexibility makes outdoor dining, family gatherings, and quiet relaxation more https://cabriostructures.com/ convenient. Available designs range from modern minimalist structures to traditional residential styles. Selecting suitable materials, operating mechanisms, and dimensions helps create a practical roofing solution that complements the home's architecture.
I really enjoyed this reflection on art and community because it shows how creative work can change when people are given the freedom to be themselves. The rehearsal scenes, small mistakes, shared encouragement, and interaction between the participants make the creative process feel very genuine. I also liked the idea that artists can rediscover their own passion by working closely with a community rather than simply directing everything themselves.
This made me think about how collaboration and reflection are also important when developing a Networking Thesis Proposal UK. Students may find UK assignment help services useful when organising research ideas and improving academic presentation. The article is a lovely reminder that growth often comes through participation and openness.
For anyone considering a pool enclosure, understanding the available options is an important first step. Retractable designs vary in size, height, materials, panel construction, operating systems, and customization possibilities. Comparing these characteristics helps property owners identify features that suit their particular swimming environment. Professional consultation can provide useful guidance regarding measurements, structural requirements, climate considerations, and installation. With a thoughtful approach, a retractable pool https://www.coversinplay.com enclosure can offer flexible coverage while preserving the enjoyable atmosphere of an outdoor swimming area.