Citra Sasmita - The Feminist Scribe Reinventing The Art Of Scrolling

Citra Sasmita Barbican Curve Gallery via CNN

We all seem to be scrolling these days, through electronic information layered in a fluid lists much like the old-fashioned scrolls people used before books. Around the world, in archives, vaults, libraries, and hidden compartments, ancient scrolls are kept meticulously for future reference or for secretive safety. When we think of scrolls, especially in Britian, we probably think of monks and politicians. History tells us these were nearly always men. It’s likely that in many other cultures, the male scribe has the share of celebrity among historians where-as the women are probably seen as caregivers and homemakers. It’s how things were a lot of the time. Feminism, then, is the cultural and political process of realigning the balance. It’s not about taking anything away from men, who many are and were rightfully remarked on, it’s about making space for women to flourish and be highlighted for their achievements too. Making sure that women have not only the opportunity to get involved but the tools and education to succeed has been a process that began at various times in different cultures. In some places women are seen as secondary to men even to this day. 
 
Blending feminism with scroll making is something unusual yet hindsightedly vital for the art world. The cultural imagination is strongly weighted towards the masculine when thinking of scrolls, from the Bayeaux Tapestry with its knights and kings, the scribes of religion with their priests and literati, the scribes of kings with their scratchy feathers and candlelit tabletops, where are the women? Here is one. Citra Sasmita, a Balinese artist, reimagines her heritage with an anti-patriarchal reflection. The mirror universe to the traditional artistry of her culture, vibrant feminine figures present themselves as mythical and luminous beings who bring the myths and folklore to life.  
 
Citra Sasmita is able to recreate the same atmosphere and aesthetic from the historical pieces with her contemporary ideas. With today’s enlightened mindset, seeing female images in the style of Balinese mythology might be seen as normal however for the style, it’s actually controversial and unusual. Unapologetically putting women in their rightful place as equals in the story of humanity, even in the fantastical stories that put people in the guise of the gods, if a man can do it then so can the girls. Using the natural magic of rebirth, transformation, and new life, Sasmita’s artistry depicts iconic and metaphorical fascination pieces that brighten our dreams. 
 
Currently on display at London’s Barbican Centre, the venue’s 90m Curve Gallery is hosting a host of scrolls that revitalise the meaning of feminism in today’s world. Her first UK showing, the beautifully presented scrolls hang from the walls and ceiling in a three-part journey that explores the culture of Bali and the rejection of Dutch colonialism. Citra Sasmita: Into Eternal Land is open until 21st April.

​Via CNN