In the Manggarai, 'mbaru' is the word for house. For the people of Wae Rebo, a small village in Flores Island, the house is the heart of a culture that flourishes through togetherness. In Mbaru, Indonesian-born director Fersya Adam and art director Imanniar Susanto draw inspiration from the Wae Rebo community's approach to God, nature, and community. Developed through field research and featuring narrative and costume design reflecting Wae Rebo's daily life, the short dance film pays homage to a unique community. The film serves both documentary and artistic purposes; it is a means to interpret, preserve and revisit unique artistic and cultural imageries. "Mbaru goes beyond showcasing Wae Rebo to the world; it aims to introduce Wae Rebo back to its community - offering a perspective on its past, present, and future significance for the local community." Watch full film on www.nowness.asia
