Suara, meaning ‘voice’ in Indonesian, aptly describes Bali’s newest multi-genre festival, a powerful expression of its vision for the future. Nestled within the seaside cliffs of Nyanyi beach, Nuanu, a blossoming creative city, embraces the harmonious union of art, culture, and nature. Here, immersive art installations intertwine with the island’s cherished forests, creating spaces for growth, communication, and education. This dedication to Tri Hita Karana, a philosophy that seeks balance between land, people, and spirit, found its embodiment in Suara Festival 2024.
The festival’s third iteration, welcoming an international audience for the first time, spanned over three days and attracted a multitude of enthusiastic festival-goers. From the pulsating energy of HVOB to the emotive trance of Mansionair, the hip-hop mania of Yung Raja and Ramengvrl, the infectious afrobeats of Disko Afrika, and the captivating performance of Angus & Julia Stone, the musical lineup offered something for every taste. Beyond the musical extravaganza, Suara provided a platform for exploration and self-discovery. Dance workshops, live painting sessions, meditation and mantra practices, discussions on building a regenerative future, and captivating Balinese performances offered a diverse range of experiences. The festival truly catered to all, with activities even captivating the youngest attendees who marveled at butterflies and interacted with friendly alpacas.
Nuanu itself became an art gallery, showcasing captivating architectural and artistic displays. The towering Earth Sentinels, a creation by renowned South African sculptor Daniel Popper, enthralled visitors with its ever-evolving visual projection. Aurora Park, Bali’s first multimedia outdoor park, integrated AI seamlessly into its natural surroundings, creating a mesmerizing fusion of technology and art. Light and sound installations illuminated the forest, offering a fresh perspective on the natural world.
Nuanu’s commitment to preserving its natural biodiversity is evident throughout its spaces. From parks and club grounds to schools and communal hubs, greenery flourishes. This commitment extends to safeguarding endangered butterflies through a native breeding program. The release of these butterflies back into their natural environment was a truly enchanting highlight of the festival.
Suara embraced inclusivity, creating a welcoming space for families. A dedicated KidsZone offered a plethora of activities, including dreamcatcher making, face painting, clay workshops, and a nanny service, allowing parents to fully immerse themselves in the festival experience. The adorable alpacas hidden within Aurora Park were a surefire favorite among the little ones.
Ash, a dedicated space for wellness, provided a sanctuary for those seeking a deeper connection with themselves and the world. Breathwork sessions, ecstatic dance practices, surf yoga classes, and astrology readings offered opportunities for self-discovery and rejuvenation. The space encouraged introspection and a profound connection to the principles of Tri Hita Karana.
Suara Festival is more than just a music and arts event; it’s a celebration of community, sustainability, and the interconnectedness of nature, art, and human experience. It’s a testament to the transformative power of creativity and a promise of a future where harmony and balance reign supreme.
