Razia Barsatie & Sarojini Lewis - Labyrinth Within

A partnership rooted in shared roots

Their art weaves personal experiences into a powerful presentation about youth and identity. Lewis views this from a non-traditional Hindustani-Dutch perspective, Barsatie from her Hindustani background in Suriname.

Location and presentation

In the office spaces of the former American embassy, the artists display video work, archive photos, sculptures and texts. The title of the exhibition refers to the inner confusion that arises when cultural codes, upbringing, spirituality and family history intersect.

The works connect personal stories with universal themes:

• What does it mean to grow up between two cultures as the descendant of contract workers?
• How do women make their voices heard within patriarchal structures?
• How are taboos and family secrets broken?

The Ogri Eye installation

Central to the exhibition is the installation Ogri Eye, in which the evil eye, a spiritual symbol from Hindu culture, serves as a metaphor for hidden memories, fears and the desire for protection. The artworks refer to domestic objects, Surinamese bus stops and abandoned plantations, which function as carriers of collective memory.

Performance during the opening

During the opening night, Sarojini Lewis will present a performance that directly connects art and audience. The power of presence will be used to make collective memory tangible and palpable.