Country Pillars: Indonesian Women

Women play a fundamental role in preserving and passing down traditions, values, and ways of life that have endured for centuries, that’s why “Country Pillars” explore the diverse facets of the lives of Indonesian women with unwavering dedication, sustain and enrich their communities, from bustling markets to serene rice fields, from the streets to their homes, these women embody the very essence of Indonesian culture; women, who carry literally, the future of the country in their backs.

This project is a celebration of their power, their daily struggles, and their ability to transform and sustain life around them. Women´s stories who, through their presence and actions, shape the soul of Indonesia.

Stories, while foundational to the survival and prosperity of their communities, remain shrouded in cultural norms that sometimes fail to fully acknowledge their significance. “In the Shadows of Rice” and “Rhythms of Joy,” it seeks to cast a light on two perspectives about how is the reality of these women in a country where the traditions are everything.

IN THE SHADOWS OF RICE
RHYTHMS OF JOY

Yet, Yogyakarta known for its traditions and culture, also is home of expressions of identity, such as the city’s Drag Queen community. The Drag Queens of Jogja offering performances that both entertain and challenge societal norms and this is how the openness of a city that, while deeply rooted in tradition, embraces diversity in all its forms.

In a society domain for man, indonesian women are the pillars of their country, they are the custodians of many of these traditions: crafting Batik, performing in religious rituals, and playing a key role in family and community celebrations like Ramadan. Yet, tradition is carried by all members of society men, women, and children and their participation is captured in the complementary body of work, “Threads of Tradition.” showing a shared herritage.