Spandita Malik’s exhibition, Jāḷī—Meshes of Resistance, showcases nine embroidered textiles featuring photographs of women who are survivors of domestic violence. Through meticulous stitching and embroidery, Malik creates a space where these women reclaim their agency and dignity.
The process behind each piece is as significant as the final artwork itself. Malik spent two years interviewing and photographing the women, allowing them to choose their own pose and gaze for the photographs. After transferring the images onto locally sourced khadi textiles, each woman was invited to embroider her own image however she saw fit. Some chose to sew over their faces, while others added intricate details and embellishments. The result is a collection of textiles that bear the mark of each woman’s personal journey and resilience.
One of the standout pieces in the exhibition is “Zayada Bhegam,” a unique photographic transfer print on khadi fabric with intricate embroidery. The piece captures the essence of the exhibition, showcasing the strength and beauty of the women featured in the show. Each artwork tells a story of survival and empowerment, challenging the viewer to confront their own biases and preconceptions about domestic violence.
Through her work, Malik invites us to see ourselves in the faces of these women, encouraging empathy and understanding. The exhibition is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of survivors, and a call to action to support and uplift those who have experienced domestic violence.
Jāḷī—Meshes of Resistance is currently on display at Robert Mann Gallery in Chelsea, Manhattan. The exhibition runs through June 28 and can be viewed by appointment only. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the transformative power of art and the resilience of the human spirit.
