100 x 200 cm
A “mata ni pachedi” is a piece of painted textile that depicts narrative images of goddesses. Traditionally, the images would be painted onto a piece of cloth found in the temple. Also known as the “kalamkari” (a hand-painted or block-printed cotton textile), “mata ni pachedi” literally translates to “behind the mother goddess”. The practice originated in the nomadic Vaghari community of Gujarat, who, upon being barred from entering Hindu temples, made their own mobile shrines with depictions of the Mother Goddess on cloth. Today, this sacred art form is universally revered and used in decorating temples and shrines with narrative illustrations of religious stories. Conceived by artist Sarah Naqvi with master craftsman Chandrakanth Chitara, Yatra depicts the Ram Leela procession, which is a staged re-enactment of the ancient Hindu epic Ramayana , through the Muslim neighborhoods of Ahmedabad, India. The procession has long been used by Hindu nationalist groups to stir communal tensions between Hindus and Muslims in a city infamous for its violent religious riots. The work examines this moment of tension, and the layered histories it embodies.
Sarah Naqvi works with art-focused activism and material realities. Her practice places emphasis on the importance of being comfortable in one’s own body. She is known for her unconventional use of materials, mediums, and techniques like fabric manipulation, dyeing, and appliqué on unusual materials such as sanitary napkins, bra cups, and tampons.From watercolor paintings to cloth and woolen sculptures of human body parts, Naqvi’s art is a celebration of body positivity and self-acceptance.
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