I sat down with Qutouf Yahia, co-founder, of Abu Dhabi poetry open mic, Arthouse Speaks, to converse about Sudanese and UAE pride, poetry, and arts in Abu Dhabi.
Dorian: Tell me more about yourself. Where are you from originally, and, how has that shaped who you are today?
Qutouf: I’m a 21 year old pharmacy graduate from Sudan. My Sudanese identity is so important to me. It is interpreted in everything I do and say. Growing up somewhere that’s as multicultural as the UAE kind of makes you an ambassador of your hometown, and I always try to represent well.
Dorian: I find that interesting because, as an American, I can’t say I feel that same level of patriotism or even recognize the impact of America on my identity although I appreciate the opportunities afforded from being born there. I have almost more pride as a UAE resident for being a part of this culture as it feels more inclusive here. When did you move to the UAE? How would you compare Sudan and the UAE?
Qutouf: My family moved here in 2003 from Qatar, so for the most part, Abu Dhabi is where I grew up. My family is pretty well-rooted in Sudan and it’s a completely different scene culturally. Everything is just more difficult to do in Sudan, and I think that’s the first thing people will notice when they visit.
Dorian: When did you discover a love for words?
Qutouf: I wrote my first poem in the ninth grade in my English literature class trying to get out of a Shakespeare assignment! What about you?
Dorian: I start rapping at about 14 and then did my first serious poem at 18. I’ve met many great Sudanese artists from singers and musicians to rappers and poets since I’ve lived in Abu Dhabi. What makes the Sudanese such prolific artists? Is there something you could attribute to the culture or the people?
Qutouf: Yes, although our educational system is so very lacking in that department, arts and culture is one of the first things we learn in Sudan. We love music, poetry and the visual arts and they’re everywhere. We grow up hearing about all the incredible art Sudanese people have brought to life, and I feel like we’re compelled to follow in their lead.
Dorian: A commitment to carry on the culture! That’s so great to hear. I’ve always heard great things about the Sudan-based Nas with Notepads…
Qutouf: Ah! Nas with Notepads (NWN)! I’m a proud veteran NWN poet as they’re my first poetic family and they taught me everything I know. I was never an organiser of the event but I attended almost on a monthly basis for three years. Spoken word in Sudan is bigger than you would think, Sudanese people never miss out on a chance to express themselves. Nas with Notepads helped facilitate that for a lot of people. It will only get bigger and better. I wish good things for them.
Dorian: Art House Speaks has made quite the buzz on the poetry scene over the past year or so. Tell me more about the founders, the initiative, and what makes the show so popular?
Qutouf: Backyard Poetry was founded by Safwa Mohammed, Abdul-Nassir Al Azry and myself in 2014. We organise a monthly poetry event called Art House Speaks that offers a platform for people to discover spoken word. Backyard Poetry brings Art House Speaks to the table. It’s the group, Art House is the event. We just want to bring that name to the front lines so we could take it with us wherever life may take us.
Dorian: I love that the show really caters to first-timers and poetry newbies. Is it intentional to make your platform open to them as much as regulars and more polished writers?
Qutouf: We wanted to provide the youth of our city with a more cultured interpretation of ‘hanging out’. We wanted to give them something to do that is more nurturing. I think what makes Art House special is how cozy the atmosphere is. Everyone is so comfortable and supportive. I don’t think poets need to worry about stage fright when they’re on our stage. We make it a point to keep the doors of spoken word wide open. Poetry is not an exclusive club. We want to offer every one the opportunity to learn and to grow together.
Dorian: What are your thoughts on the growing poetry scene in the UAE?
Qutouf: I absolutely love it! I’m so proud of our city and the interest it has shown in the arts, in general. I’m looking forward to see what it has to offer.
Dorian: And on that note, I wanted to thank you for the offer of coffee today. Looks like the waiter is here with the check, and I need to go to another meeting. Great talking with you.
Qutouf: But, wait. You invited me for coffee.
Dorian: *Exits abruptly*
