Vernon Chatlein assisted with the sonic display case for Onze Koloniale Erfenis, now on display at the Tropenmuseum. His knowledge of the musical instruments on display, and as a contemporary musician and producer was invaluable for this installation.
In 2020, during the pandemic, Chatlein embarked on a research project around the mysterious music style from his native Curaçao called ‘Muzik di Zumbi’. The six-month research period on the island has given him many insights in the history of Afro-Curaçaoan music, its contributors and pioneers. This research period also allowed him to dive in the Curaçao archives and find Zikinzá, the extensive collection of field recordings of stories, anecdotes, work songs, lullabies, accounts, legends made in the 1950’s and 60’s by Pater Paul Brenneker and Elis Juliana. Many musical projects have come to life directly or indirectly as a result of this research made possible by the Urban Arts Talent Grant by Fonds voor Cultuurparticipatie in collaboration with Nowhere Amsterdam.
