Imprint

The traditional Indian garment sati (or now, sari), translating to strip of cloth in Sanskrit, is an accepted form of sexuality and femininity, contained in the sphere of domestication. Historically, the sari has oppressed women, especially those of the poor castes, and has acted as an agent of patriarchy and colonial identity. This piece originally considered the sari as an object of confinement. Seen as the pinnacle of feminine beauty in India, I explored the tension behind that notion. A history of colonial and Christian modification, with the addition of the blouse and lengthening of the skirt, has created a version that is considered “modest.” The garment allows the visibility of the midriff, while concealing the legs and breasts.

The transparent quality of the material allows the form to be seen, challenging the imposed notions of modesty. The suffocating nature of the material and the tension of the thread is broken through the pushing of the body against the garment and the ideas it holds. Repetitive repairs were made to seam the internal fragments together, only to be ripped apart once more.

The original rendition of this piece critiqued the sari. It has since evolved to consider the complex and contentious relationship to my culture. The ghostly form of the sari separated from its color and traditional designs hangs empty and unoccupied. The traditional motifs fade and dissipate away. This piece depicts my longing to be immersed within my culture, and its perpetual ebb despite my efforts to connect.