Samuel Yohanes Glenn M

Samuel Yohanes Glenn M was born in Jayapura, Papua, on March 23, 1995. As the only son of the late Octavianus Miteboga and Jusia Rifurareany, he grew up surrounded by the rich natural landscapes and cultural heritage of Papua, experiences that continue to shape his artistic identity and creative practice.

From an early age, Samuel developed a deep connection with nature, which he regarded as both a stage and a playground. He spent much of his childhood exploring mountains, swimming in hidden rivers, and fishing at sea, cultivating a unique perspective on the relationship between land, water, and community. His artistic sensibilities emerged through these encounters with the natural world. As a child, he would create sounds by blowing through dried leaves, an imaginative practice that sparked his fascination with sound and storytelling.

A significant turning point came after completing high school, when he moved to Yogyakarta, Indonesia’s renowned cultural and artistic hub. In this vibrant creative environment, Samuel deepened his engagement with the arts and expanded his artistic horizons while remaining firmly connected to his Papuan roots.

Today, his work is grounded in an ongoing exploration and reinterpretation of the sounds, memories, and cultural traditions of Papua. Through his artistic practice, he actively researches, preserves, and revitalizes Papuan cultural artifacts and sonic traditions that are increasingly at risk of being overlooked by younger generations. As both an artist and cultural craftsman, he breathes new life into these traditions, ensuring their continued relevance in a rapidly modernizing world.

More than an artistic endeavor, Samuel’s work serves as a form of cultural preservation. Through sound, craftsmanship, and storytelling, he safeguards collective memories and keeps the spirit of Papua alive, carrying its heritage across distances while remaining deeply rooted in the place he calls home.