an [ im ] material space rooted in martinique/wanakaera functioning as an artistic and cultural research lab engaging togetherness and experimental pedagogy
SIANO
Micro-Space
The musical genres of the Caribbean are intricately intertwined with political strife, acts of resistance, and each island is rich in artistic and cultural expression of resilience, giving space fordifferent narratives and voices. The genres are born from a dynamic fusion that connects traditional African rhythms, European influences, and Latin tempos, and the result is something novel each time. In this way, Caribbean music stands as a testament to Creole and Caribbean cultures.
We launched the first phase of our program, Siano, with an intimate archival display exploring these themes. This micro-space, curated by Jade Bassien-Capsa and Adama Keïta aimed to nurture the audience with material artefacts like photos, newspaper clippings, and ephemera; a carefully selected array of texts and essays; all of which sat alongside two newly imagined mind maps created by artist and Parolière, Simone Lagrand, entitled “24 hours in the life of a young Martinican woman”.
Lagrand’s mind maps materialised in a narrative that explores the thoughts and references relating to Caribbean sonorities expertly within the life of a main character or persona given the name, “Beverli”. The curation of select books was conceived by Jade Bassien-Capsa providing an introduction into the diverse genres and influences of Caribbean music, with a site-specific focus on Martinique and Guadeloupe. This sat alongside a sound installation which included a select few Caribbean songs that could be experienced in communion with the objects of memory on display. Through the genres of Biguine, Gwo Ka, Bèlè, and Zouk music, our aim was to share with you the contributions of artists who have not only shaped the music scene but who have left cultural markers in music well beyond the borders of the Caribbean.
Our heartfelt gratitude to SeizeMètreCarrés for warmly welcoming our ephemeral space
SIANO Micro - Space at Seize Mètre Carrés, Fort - de - France in Martinique | 26.08.2023 - 03.09.2023 Documentation by Sarah Louis-Michel
Sound curation
Books curation
© Nianiba, 2025