Onna Musha by Matt Jackson and Family (Netherlands)

Onna Musha
Target Audience: for 4+ ages
Duration: 45 minutes

Synopsis 
"Puppet theater, butoh dance and mask work collide in this research of the life of an ancient warrior woman. A trail from innocence to pride & from harshness to humility takes us along the different worlds she has lived. While parts of her past may surprise her, she attempts to remodel her life."

As a young couple, Matt and Kristien first begin it during a residency in Kamiyama, Japan in 2016. Performing in an old cinema turned art-space. 

In 2018 they continued to develop the project as young parents, bringing their new baby Ayla to the residencies. A new outlook emerged on sharing the work as they shared raising the child.

In 2020 they hoped to bring it to Pesta Boneka, but the shutdown lead them to submitting a film. Perhaps due to the uncertainty of the world, life, and their artwork the film took on a surprisingly darker mood…

In 2021 they continued the performance research during an art exhibition of Matts’ (The Vessel). This time with the second baby, and less darkness as the puppet was once again curious about her live audience and surroundings.

In 2026 they hope to arrive with an 8 year old and a 4 year old. Both of whom love to create. Whether it is sculpting, building with sticks, carving wood, dancing, or making music- the children are enjoying their parents inspiration.

We hope the new Onna Musha will show a new light in her life, inspired by the joy and hope brought from the children.

Production Credit
Artistic Director: Matt Jackson
Performer: Kristien Sonnevijlle

Supported by Erasmus Huis Jakarta.

Artist’s Profile
Matt Jackson is an American artist residing in Netherlands. With over 20 years of experience he is working with wood, clay, charcoal and papier-mache to create sculptures, masks, and puppets.  His work is shown in exhibitions and also used in live performances by himself or for other internationally recognised clients. He specialises in the use of non-toxic and recycled materials.  Kristien is a dancer and movement teacher. She specialises in a combination of butoh dance, contact improvisation, and instant composition. She also sings and works with fabrics to make costumes.  Together we create site-specific performances and installations that bring the sculptures to life: between puppetry, dance, and mask play. Striving always to make beautiful sculptures that give life while remaining still, and then slowly come to life with movement before a witness.
mattjacksonstudios.com
IG: @mattjacksonstudios