Jalvvi Niillas Holmberg
 

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Jalvvi Niillas Holmberg is a writer and musician deeply rooted in Deatnu, Sápmi. His literary work encompasses poetry, prose, drama and screenplays. He is an author of six poetry collections. He has performed his poetry worldwide and his texts have been translated into several languages. More recently he has gained critical acclaim with his novel Halla Helle and co-written feature film Je’vida.

To live is to answer one question. The question is land, and I
in the best manner answer
LAND.
 
Photo by Lada Suomenrinne
 

In the field of music Niillas works mainly as a vocalist and lyricist, often fusing Sámi yoik vocals with poetry recital in a unique manner. Besides working solo he has performed internationally with philharmonic orchestras and many genre-defying bands.

For more than a decade, Niillas has been involved in several movements against extractivism in the traditional Sámi areas such as Deatnu, Fovsen Njaarke, Aanaar and Gállok. Land-based knowledge and anti-colonial aspects are at the heart of his work.