TALKER is a self-published print project that explores approaches to performance-making through long-form interviews. Each issue focuses on an individual practitioner.

Issue #12 is a conversation with Agus Nur Amal PMTOH. Agus uses household objects for storytelling performances and creates art objects to share ideas, knowledge, conflict resolutions, and trauma healing. Collaborating with artists, photographers, videographers, and educators, he aims to entertain and educate through various methods. This interview traces the formation of his performance practice following his graduation from the theatre faculty at the Jakarta Institute of Arts and return to his hometown Weh Island (Aceh, Sumatra) where he researched and studied the art of Acehnese storytelling. We also discuss his involvement in community empowerment activities, trauma healing, and peace-building projects throughout Indonesia. His work was featured in a major exhibition in Kassel, Germany as part of Documenta Fifteen in 2022.

This issue is supported by a Connections through Culture UK-Southeast Asia 2022-2023 Grant from the British Council.