Borealis Conversation: Reinventing Joik

In the third of three talks exploring elements of indigenous Sámi listening cultures, Sámi experimental musician and joiker Viktor Bomstad is joined by fellow joikers, including Johan Sara Jr. to discuss how joik can and can’t be reinvented today. They consider how the joik has evolved and can be the basis for improvisation, exploring the tension between the need to hold and preserve tradition, whilst at the same time making space for new expressions that create new perspectives within Sámi communities. As a key signifier of Sámi cultural heritage, practice and belonging, what are the risks that experimentation brings and are they worth it?

Our 2024 talks programme is co-curated by Elina Waage Mikalsen and hosted by the Bergen sámiid searvi/Bergen Sámi association who amongst other things are custodians of the Jiennagoahti, work to promote Sámi language knowledge and make visible the deep historical connections between the city of Bergen (Birgon) and Sápmi that have existed through trade.