PRABANA MENDIS

Throughout history, photography has been used by colonialist powers to exotify, dehumanize, and construct those of South Asian decent. Through the act of producing photographs and showcasing the intersection of one's identity, we hope to create a space for those who have been marginalized and excluded from public spheres, and allow for them to reclaim identities as both South Asian women and those who identify as non-binary. 

Process:

By making an open invitation in Northfield, MN, from November 2017 to March 2018, we were able to work with those who identify as women or non-binary South Asians. This project focused on giving agency to the model, by allowing the model guide how they want to be represented. After several conversations between the model and the artists, and getting consent or approvals throughout the stages of brainstorming, editing, and assembling the photographs, we produced the first chapter of Asmi in April 2018.

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Acknowledgements:

The first chapter of this project was made possible by St. Olaf College's departments of Art & Art History, Women's & Gender Studies, and History. 

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Artists/Curators:

Prabana Mendis and Alisha Chaudhry 

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