Norbert Kuki (1999, Dunajská Streda, SK) is a Roma artist from Slovakia. He graduated from the Department of Intermedia at the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Bratislava. Having a background in visual arts and music (hip-hop/rap), Norbert views art as a quest for Roma identity, a means to preserve, distribute and contextualize Roma culture. His art is based on Romani language, stories and legends he explores from various angles. Lately, his attention has turned to questions arising from the designation of a language as official, translation, globalisation and the role of music in language preservation.
artist statement
In my practice, I document the journey of my wandering within Roma culture. Along this path, I attempt to “romify” the world around me, which at the same time reveals additional layers of questions. I search for new ways of retelling narratives, seeking truth in legends, in history, in dreams, and in the Roma experience.
My goal in my work is to define contemporary Roma identity and to engage the public in a playful way. I express myself through video, music (as the producer of rapper Big Ronn), and in collaboration with the streetwear brand ROMA SPORT. I see each of these expressions as a form of activism that supports identity and community engagement.
My philosophy is to reach the widest possible audience, which is why I strive to create art that is accessible and functional beyond the confines of galleries.
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