Colonial Violence
Colonial Violence was created using oil paint on canvas, connected with rope. It shows the struggles queer people of colour face because of the colonization of South Asia. This piece speaks to my vulnerability as an artist and has helped me communicate my own struggles to others.
Colonization is the stem of queerphobia in South Asia, despite queer people being integral to our beliefs. Faith-based violence has changed my culture forever, and has allowed me to be outcasted in my own community. It took me a long time for me to grapple with being queer, and an even longer time to gain acceptance. The difficulties I’ve had juggling being brown and queer stem directly from colonization.
I’m not an open person. I find it hard to express myself and my feelings, especially when it comes to my identity. My art helps me communicate the experiences I can’t talk about. Colonial Violence is one of my strongest pieces because of the way it allows me to connect with others. Through my vulnerability, I am able to bridge the gap between myself and those who are different from me. This piece allows me to discuss difficult concepts, without the noise of hate.