Project Overview
We are dedicated to supporting South Asian artists in the South West to develop bold new work that brings heritage forms into conversation with contemporary and experimental practice. Through artist development, skills-based workshops and live showcases, we aim to strengthen creative pathways, nurture emerging talent and build a vibrant future for South Asian-led arts in the region.
4+
R&D Sessions Delivered
9+
Artists Involved
12
Workshops Delivered
16
Performances Delivered
20,000+
Participants Reached
3
Festivals Reached
New Work & R&D
We brought South Asian artists together through focused R&D, workshops and performance, creating space to develop bold new work that connects heritage practices with contemporary music, movement and storytelling.
Artists Development
Artists developed interdisciplinary work combining South Asian musical traditions with electronic production, dance, poetry and moving image.
Collaborative Growth
Contemporary artists collaborated with heritage practitioners, connecting forms such as bhangra, kathak, tabla and veena with new creative approaches.
Workshop Material
Ten co-designed workshops supported South Asian creatives aged 16–30 to develop skills in music production, choreography and digital storytelling.
Performance Prep
Preparing for live presentations and festival showcases.
Community Workshops
South Asian Heritage
Contemporary Production
Creative Expression
Co-designed sessions explored South Asian creative lineages while challenging gatekeeping and “authenticity” policing, helping emerging artists access experimental platforms and develop confidence in contemporary practice.
Hands-on workshops developed practical skills in Ableton music production, choreography and digital storytelling, supporting participants to create new interdisciplinary work across music, movement and visual media.
Participants developed short works for presentation at Diaspora Festival, building portfolio material, peer networks, confidence and live platform experience within an accessible and welcoming environment.
Live Performances
We presented South Asian-inspired contemporary music and performance to public audiences, delivering 10 workshops and 6 performances overall.
6 Performances
WOMAD Festival
RSVP Bhangra
Trinity Arts Centre
Arnolfini
Diaspora Festival
Bristol Beacon
Asian Arts Agency Festival
WOMEX Event
Respect Festival
Project Evolution
WOMAD Festival + Venue Expansion
Our presence at the festival provided a significant platform to showcase the fusion of heritage and contemporary music to a global audience.
Strategic Partnerships
We deepened our collaborations with heritage musicians like RSVP Bhangra, creating a bridge between traditional rhythms and modern performance.
Workshop Innovation
Our workshop formats evolved to be more accessible and hands-on, ensuring beginners found confidence in their creative expression.
Future Foundations
By establishing a robust model of artist development and community engagement, we have created a sustainable path for future creative work.
Impact & Evaluation
A comprehensive evidence-led assessment of the South Asian Desi Futurism Project's achievements and community impact.
For Artists
We provided dedicated R&D time for experimentation, fostering new collaborations and professional development. Artists gained confidence and new performance experience.
For Participants
Interactive workshops introduced beginners to South Asian music and rhythm. Participants developed new skills and greater confidence in engaging with heritage culture.
“The project gave us the space to imagine where we can go next.”
“A creative and hands-on experience rooted in our culture.”
For Audiences
We delivered high-quality public performances that expanded visibility for South Asian artists. Contemporary presentations of cultural heritage reached new audiences.
“WOMAD Festival - you were amazing!”
For the Future
The project has established a strong foundation for continued artistic work. We are building new partnerships and improving workshop models for future opportunities.
“Celebrating where we come from while creating space to imagine where we can go next.”
Visual Archive
Through film and photography, we documented R&D, rehearsals, workshops and performances. The resulting digital archive and production manual codify our Desi-Futurism methods as a replicable resource for artists, partners and cultural organisations across the South West.
Partners & Collaborators
Arts Council England, Trinity Community Arts, South Gloucestershire Asian Project, Dhek Bhal
RSVP Bhangra
WOMAD Festival, Real World Studios, Diaspora Festival, Arnolfini
South Asian Desi Futurism
Project Overview
A celebration of South Asian heritage and contemporary artistic innovation. We document artists developing new work that connects tradition with music, movement, storytelling and imagined
20+
Workshops & Performances
9+
Artists & Heritage Performers
500+
Community Participants
90%
Impact on Creative Development
South Asian Desi Futurism supported artistic development and collaboration by connecting South Asian heritage with contemporary music, movement and storytelling through artist-led R&D, ten accessible workshops and live public performances.
