Inside Cirebon Bound: A Journey of Rediscovery

Living and working extensively in Yogyakarta doesn't make us forget our beloved hometown, Cirebon. Our emotional closeness to Cirebon transcends the miles that separate us. In fact, the physical distance has only deepened our sense of identity and belonging to this charming city. This profound connection inspired us to embark on a journey of self-discovery and cultural exploration, leading to the creation of Cirebon Bound—a heartfelt initiative to reconnect with and reimagine the essence of Cirebon.

But why Cirebon, you may wonder? Beyond our subjective sentiments and personal experiences, we recognize that Cirebon is a treasure trove of untold stories and undocumented heritage. Despite its rich historical, social, and cultural tapestry, much about Cirebon remains unrecorded and unstudied. We believe these hidden gems deserve to be unearthed and shared with the world, fostering a dynamic exchange of information and culture. By doing so, we aim to bring Cirebon's relevance to contemporary discussions and artistic expressions.

Cirebon Bound is envisioned as a repository of all print publications pertaining to the city, encompassing its history, societal dynamics, cultural nuances, and modern-day issues. Our dream is to elevate this discourse by participating in various art book fairs, presenting Cirebon Bound as a novel initiative in these creative arenas. These fairs offer a unique platform to introduce and celebrate the intricate narratives of Cirebon.

The history of spaces and territories can be explored through myriad forms, with print publications being a particularly compelling medium. We believe that this traditional yet versatile format holds immense potential for disseminating discourse and knowledge, especially about a city as enigmatic as Cirebon. Regrettably, local engagement with this medium has been sparse and we see an opportunity to fill this gap.

Art book fairs, in our perspective, should transcend their role as mere exhibition spaces for alternative publications. They possess the potential to act as bridges, introducing niche topics and fostering a deeper understanding of diverse cultures and places, including Cirebon. Our vision extends beyond Cirebon Bound; we aspire to see art book fairs evolving into forums where a plethora of topics and discourses are presented, discussed, and celebrated in print.

In essence, Cirebon Bound is not just an initiative; it's a labor of love and a quest to honor our roots. Through meticulous documentation and passionate storytelling, we aim to bring Cirebon closer to the hearts and minds of people, both near and far.