Careless Whimper.
A series on the loss of tradition and perplexities of religion’s placement in this dissipation. Of how culture mourns for itself. Of rupture and decadence.
11 February 2013 :: 30 Rabiulawal 1434H
Intimation/Intimidation
conflict/religion
This piece is inspired by the seemingly blurred out line between religion and conflict. I wanted to show the duality of Muslim clothing article, in this case the most identifiable one, the hijab, chador, prayer veil.
How within a solitary premise for instance, conversations with God, it exhibits purity and devotion. The apparel marks a unity and “oneness” amongst the sisterhood (ummah). However, by this clothing article too, within the premise of secularity, they are easy targets of judgmental platitudes. How classification, identification and collectivism are easily brought forth. The “oneness” is pronounced here too, except by perceptions formed from the opposite spectrum.
The subject is on the bed as the bed holds vast connotations. Bed is often associated with death, frailty, isolation, vulnerability or solace. The bed too, offers another dimension; one that borders on vulgar and delinquent boundaries. I wanted to juxtapose the idea of sanctity and the profane. How we choose to allow preconceived notions dictate our personal judgement. How we choose to taint something venerable to something odious. How we choose to focus on the religious signifier instead of the entity as individuals.
Till we are ready to set aside judgments, these flowers will shy away.
Exhibited at Pingyao International Festival 2012
Only A Small Space Separates A Part From Apart
A diptych to illustrate my sentiments towards the manufactured landscapes of Singapore. The inevitable encroachment of Man into this natural spaces. The intertwining synergy of the manufactured and the authentic, where it all revolves around the progression of Man. I wanted the whole process to be erratic, raw and organic hence the inclusion of the watermarks, literally paving inroads into the negatives.
I feel that it is also important to show this great divide, between the manufactured worlds between the inhabitants of HDB residences and the land of the private properties. There is this placement of gaze; conscious or subconscious in intent, there will always be this looking upon. A boundary or perhaps, a lurch of hope across the concrete window. A distance to delineate, a distance to operate.
peace be upon the hearts in disarray
Salam Ma’al Hijrah!
Wishing all my brothers and sisters a very happy new islamic year! May this hijrah welcomes new prospects, rizq, and all the good things for all mankind Amin.
Pingyao, China
2012
In China, I decided to YOLO.
