zmayat is an open-source initiative aiming to amplify, recollect and share the perspective of the subcultural marginal narrative through graphical mapping. Currently, our initiative is co-organized by two non-binary practitioners and is interested in expanding slowly over time through community events, pop-up libraries, and 'safe' collaborations both locally and around the globe. zmayat initiated by Tilottama B. and Kaur C. (about us)
To clarify, our platform was initially known as factorial(z). However, during the first phase of our exploration, we found a subtle glitch within our strategy in terms of its collective acceptance. Therefore, we decided to re-moderate and bring fresh new energy to our commune. zmayat is our extended vision, which will follow the same methodology we used to explore, but with a wider understanding of decolonial manifestation. If you are curious about our journey, please read the extended note* below.
To clarify, our platform was initially known as factorial(z). However, during the first phase of our exploration, we found a subtle glitch within our strategy in terms of its collective acceptance. Therefore, we decided to re-moderate and bring fresh new energy to our commune. zmayat is our extended vision, which will follow the same methodology we used to explore, but with a wider understanding of decolonial manifestation. If you are curious about our journey, please read the extended note* below.
*In the wake of the pandemic, two queer individuals - Tilottama and Kaur were grappling with socio-personal dilemmas, as if the pandemic was not just an external event but a turmoil that we as communities had neglected for far too long. Despite its challenges, however, the pandemic proved to be more than a single event. It had palpable connections to ecological disorder, marginal violence, and even the pervasive effects of post-colonial cultural oppression. During the duration of the lockdown, Tilottama and Kaur were engaged in constant conversations regarding the potential of regaining the momentum they had before the interruption and breaking away from the silence resulting from the totalitarian environment they were living in. On a personal level, Tilottama was consumed by several explorations such as deep ecology as a political tool against singularities or the future of temporal art. At the same time, Kaur was struggling with the transition as the physical isolation combined with emotional neglect became significant barriers - as a practicing intersectioner they were looking for a place where they could return to the radical realm of curatorship where their artistic practice is not constrained to just the studio.
In the summer of 2021, both Tilottama and Kaur traveled from Howrah and Dhaka to Goa where they refreshed themselves and decided to re-evaluate their approach. They realized that they needed to shift their focus from the studio and expand their artistic practice beyond the confines of their creative domains. Sometimes, middle of June- they decided to establish a platform for fluid acceptance, through which multiple queer bodies could express their freedom without the burden of top-down expectations. They named their collective f(z) and pursued it as a space where various qurious(queerly curious) bodies could come together for workshops, dialogues, and other events where unconditional intersection can flourish. Later in 2022, they took a break to be able to understand the future possibilities - they spend a whole year in field study and finally returned to their working station, This time they have evolved field notes and a plan of action. In short, f(z) has re-emerged as zmayat - a platform that seeks to expand its working methodology and identity to serve a diverse collective. All the previous documents and archive that belongs to f(z) will automatically transfer to zmayat by default. For any queries or concerns, you can get in touch with us directly.
In the summer of 2021, both Tilottama and Kaur traveled from Howrah and Dhaka to Goa where they refreshed themselves and decided to re-evaluate their approach. They realized that they needed to shift their focus from the studio and expand their artistic practice beyond the confines of their creative domains. Sometimes, middle of June- they decided to establish a platform for fluid acceptance, through which multiple queer bodies could express their freedom without the burden of top-down expectations. They named their collective f(z) and pursued it as a space where various qurious(queerly curious) bodies could come together for workshops, dialogues, and other events where unconditional intersection can flourish. Later in 2022, they took a break to be able to understand the future possibilities - they spend a whole year in field study and finally returned to their working station, This time they have evolved field notes and a plan of action. In short, f(z) has re-emerged as zmayat - a platform that seeks to expand its working methodology and identity to serve a diverse collective. All the previous documents and archive that belongs to f(z) will automatically transfer to zmayat by default. For any queries or concerns, you can get in touch with us directly.
publication
ফেঁকড়ি (একটা কর্নার থেকে উদ্ভূত আনুষঙ্গিক বিষয়)
aka Fekri (associates derive from one corner) Year : 2021 |
পক্ষান্তরে aka On the contrary
Year : 2021 |
Fekri (associates derive from one corner) - a 'space' of safe and empathetic exchange of emotions, thoughts, and knowledge from marginalised experiences of panic, appeal, and hope. It considers the 'corner facing’ position at a certain distance from the centre to be firm. Although seemingly narrow, it is infinite for mutual thinking together. It is merely an attempt to re-examine what is hidden, what is thrown away, lost, or suppressed.
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'On the contrary ’ is a nightmare where several of our unreasonable experiences started blending like fluid mercury. On the other hand, we tried to narrate the trail beyond the rigidity of the alpha-normative gaze.
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Exploration
Our primary objective is to delve into the rich and subversive cultural diversity that has long characterized the region of Bengal, taking into account its historical and geographical context, particularly the pre-partition political landscape. We are deeply committed to unearthing and celebrating the lesser-known aspects of this cultural tapestry. One of our central missions is to champion and promote independent self-publishing practices and the creators who employ them. We recognize that within this discipline, there exist hidden gems and marginalized voices that deserve recognition and amplification. Through our efforts, we seek to shed light on these overlooked narratives and artistic expressions, ensuring that they receive the attention and appreciation they rightfully deserve.
To achieve these goals, we are guided by a few key principles. First and foremost, we embrace an interdependent methodology, recognizing that collaboration and cooperation are essential in this endeavor. By bringing together diverse perspectives and talents, we can create a more comprehensive and holistic understanding of Bengal's cultural richness. Furthermore, we are committed to adopting a decolonial narrative. This means that we actively challenge and deconstruct any remnants of colonial influence that may still persist in the way Bengal's culture is portrayed and studied. By doing so, we aim to present a more authentic and unfiltered representation of this vibrant region. Finally, local appreciation is at the heart of our approach. We firmly believe that by engaging with and uplifting the local communities, artists, and traditions, we can create a more genuine and profound connection to Bengal's cultural heritage. Our research is not conducted from a distant or detached perspective; rather, it is a participatory and immersive experience that seeks to honor and celebrate the unique identity of Bengal.
To achieve these goals, we are guided by a few key principles. First and foremost, we embrace an interdependent methodology, recognizing that collaboration and cooperation are essential in this endeavor. By bringing together diverse perspectives and talents, we can create a more comprehensive and holistic understanding of Bengal's cultural richness. Furthermore, we are committed to adopting a decolonial narrative. This means that we actively challenge and deconstruct any remnants of colonial influence that may still persist in the way Bengal's culture is portrayed and studied. By doing so, we aim to present a more authentic and unfiltered representation of this vibrant region. Finally, local appreciation is at the heart of our approach. We firmly believe that by engaging with and uplifting the local communities, artists, and traditions, we can create a more genuine and profound connection to Bengal's cultural heritage. Our research is not conducted from a distant or detached perspective; rather, it is a participatory and immersive experience that seeks to honor and celebrate the unique identity of Bengal.
(Exploration 1)
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(Exploration 2)
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Mar(z)ine is a participatory research platform for cross-cultural dialogue under factorial z. It is an attempt to connect and understand the nature of diversity and politics zine-making in the mode of subaltern cross-cultural mapping. We are curious to associate and building up an interdependent network for the open-source zine- research, approaches, methodologies, ideas for the future fluid commune.
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Alap is a durational dialogue for inclusive growth - we are curious to explore a perspective where the purpose of making 'dialogue' is not only about presenting the idea of 'self' rather preparing a decomposed ground for the future commune with a durational commitment for our mutual development. For our mutual understanding, this segment is used to known as (z)mayat in our earlier edition.
In this initiative, We are interested to invite self-publishers/zine makers/artist book designers on our virtual platform to able to understand their decolonial methods of representations and as well as the collective future of this emerging medium. We think, tracing the creative binaries can be one of the crucial paths to able to map the discourse beyond imposed colonial cultural schooling. Please feel free to expand the discussion with inclusive collective listening. |
Initiatives
At present, we are in the process of setting up our foundation, diligently preparing the groundwork for our larger-scale initiative. This endeavor holds immense importance to us, as we are eager to forge collaborative partnerships and actively engage in meaningful work within our chosen areas of focus. There are three primary facets to our envisioned initiative:
Durational Participatory Workshop: Our immediate plan involves the organization of an extensive participatory workshop. This workshop will serve as a dynamic platform for individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together, exchange ideas, and engage in collective learning experiences over an extended period. By fostering an environment of collaboration and shared exploration, we aim to unlock creative potentials and encourage innovative thinking. Through this workshop, we hope to lay the foundation for a vibrant and interconnected community of like-minded individuals.
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**Annual Inclusive Residency for Self-Publishers:** Building on the success of our participatory workshop, we intend to establish an annual residency program specifically designed for self-publishers. This residency will be characterized by its inclusivity, welcoming creators from various walks of life and fostering a sense of belonging. It will provide participants with the time, space, and resources necessary to further develop their self-publishing projects. We envision this residency as a nurturing incubator for fresh ideas and unconventional storytelling, empowering self-publishers to push boundaries and challenge the status quo.
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**Mutual Fair for Zine Makers in Southeast Asia:** Looking to the future, we aspire to launch a mutual fair dedicated to zine makers across Southeast Asia. This fair will serve as a vibrant marketplace for creators who are passionate about working with vernacular languages. By bringing together zine makers from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, we aim to celebrate the richness of Southeast Asian storytelling traditions. This initiative will not only provide a platform for artists to showcase their work but also facilitate cross-cultural exchange and collaboration.
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In summary, our ongoing efforts are focused on laying the groundwork for a multifaceted initiative that encompasses a durational participatory workshop, an inclusive residency program for self-publishers, and a mutual fair celebrating zine makers in Southeast Asia. Through these endeavors, we aim to foster creativity, collaboration, and cultural exchange within our vibrant and diverse community.
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