Dancer, performer, and creator, Samuel Djoulaye Coulibaly is one of the rising faces of the Malian artistic scene. Winner of the Pirogues du Zémè residency – Dance section, he carries with sensitivity and boldness a work in progress: Blood and Milk Bond, a striking piece that addresses the painful realities faced by many young artists in Africa.
During two months of residency at the Don Sen Folo Lab center, Samuel immersed himself in an artistic exploration around the theme of the youth’s path. Blood and Milk Bond highlights the wounds caused by rejection, harassment, social judgments, and stereotypes, especially those surrounding artistic professions. Dance is often seen as a choice of debauchery or marginality, rather than a noble and committed act. Yet, many young artists, like Samuel, engage with it passionately, resiliently, and faithfully.
Artistic Approach
His artistic approach draws from raw emotions: sadness, fear, pain, but also hope, protection, and acceptance. With this piece, he asks:
“Must we only be accepted when we are rich? Why must we endure this rejection before being recognized?”
A sincere and deep cry.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
This ongoing work is the result of an interdisciplinary collaboration with talented Malian artists:
Aliou Coulibaly and Aboubacar Sidibé for the voice-over writing,
Makan Coulibaly and Mohamed Diarra for the scenography,
Ismaël Traoré for sound technique,
Giovanni Dehouè for music,
and Aliou for the photo credits.
A Project in Ongoing Development
This creation remains in the research phase, which promises even more evolution and depth in the coming months.
Acknowledgments
Samuel Djoulaye Coulibaly would like to thank the Founou Founou Federation, the Don Sen Folo Lab center, and the European Union for their valuable support. He also extends his gratitude to everyone who attended to witness the beginnings of this moving project.
