Body of Work, 2022
“You are so skinny!”
Since I can remember, my body has been a moving target for unsolicited comments – both negative and positive – from family, friends and strangers alike. Growing up, I was majorly underweight for my height (some seem to think I still am); besides, I have always had a skinny build which made me insecure. Often I would smile meekly in participation or bite my tongue from being rude. Quickly, these remarks fixated on certain parts of my body – bent nose, chicken legs and perky breasts.
How can one discern the personal and political through ceramics?
My art practice is an ongoing exploration of unpacking my shame and insecurities, where I focus on these comments to this day. I have internalised them; presently, I need to own my narrative. Through this process, I intend to provoke a dialogue; compelled to address my own beauty standards by challenging the body politics surrounding it and understanding the importance of the personal and shared human experience.
Video: Caroline Bertram
Sound collaboration: Reyaz Badaruddin