Interview — Artists Of The Future (5)
Surma
Portugal’s most intriguing export, Surma, tells us how to turn freakiness into strength and how to overcome bullying.
23. April 2019 — MYP N° 24 »Tomorrow« — Interview: Katharina Weiß, Photography: Lea Bräuer
Part 5 of our »Artists Of The Future« series:
Surma
When activism meets art: For female, trans and non-binary artists, the chances of making a career in show business can resemble that of a particularly nasty dice game. DICE Conference + Festival wants to shift the power structures in the entertainment industry, which is why during the three days of DICE, cis-male artists stay in the audience. MYP met some of the international artists performing at DICE in Arkaoda, Berlin-Neukölln.
This time, we present Portuguese pop artist Débora Umbelino, aka Surma. Her music is searching for the beauty of life while exploring electronic worlds of sound, which send her listeners on a celestial journey that combines sonic environments with spherical fashion. Beyond her unique talent, it is her warm personality and her room-filling energy that leaves an impression on the lucky ones who have the chance to meet her.
»I was bullied in high school. They called me a freak. Today I say proudly: Yes, I am.«
Katharina:
In your opinion, how are the two terms “being an artist” and “being an activist” related?
Surma:
Both are channels, to talk to people. In my case, they are combined.
Katharina:
How has a certain struggle over identity shaped your path?
Surma:
I was bullied in high school, I just did not fit in. I was the black sheep because I wore different clothes and listened to different music. They called me a freak. Today I say proudly: Yes, I am. These days, I feel good about myself and I am proud of all the things I did differently.
Katharina:
If you could meet your bullies once again, what would you like to tell them?
Surma:
I have a way bigger urge to fight for better education in schools. Anti-bullying workshops were not a thing when I was younger, but I hope they will be in the future.
»All labels are a bit stupid. We can do much better without.«
Katharina:
Complete the sentences: I hate being labeled as…
Surma:
…normal. That’s the worst. But I think, all labels are a bit stupid. We can do much better without.
Katharina:
On the contrary, I would wish to be appreciated for my…
Surma:
…work in the alien community.
Katharina:
Who are the most influential non-male identifying artists in your life?
Surma:
Annie Clark, called St. Vincent, and Björk are my two goddesses.
Katharina:
Which experiences and motives shape your lyrics?
Surma:
Isolation. Also, experiencing homophobia, and the anger that stems from that. Also, silence.
Katharina:
When you remember the last situation you witnessed homophobia—what happened and how did you feel?
Surma:
I was on the road with a gay mate of mine and one guy just shouted “faggot” at him. My friend just replied: “I am, and I’m proud!” It was so cool to see that.
