Tongues of My Sisters was conceived as part of an arts initiative at Chandraketugarh, West Bengal, India (2024). This site-specific installation was canceled days before the exhibition when the organizers were cautioned of potential political/religious sensitivity in light of current events taking place across the country.
Chandraketugarh is an important archealogical complex rich with Bengali history and mythology. One of its many legends encompasses Khana; a medieval poet and astrologer who imparted sustainable, agricultural knowledge through poetic verse. It is said that her wisdom surpassed that of her father-in-law (or husband, depending on the story version). He muted her voice by severing her tongue.
Stay small, be submissive, keep silent– or be prepared to face the consequences. This type of cautionary tale for women has been repeated throughout time and across cultures, while also playing out in very real histories.
On a material level, these clay tongues pay homage to the abundance of terracotta excavated near Khana’s mound at Chandraketugarh. As a symbol, the tongue can be interpreted as sexual, as vulgar, as truth, as power. This work speaks of the suppression Khana–and all women–have faced in securing a strong, female voice. It speaks of their rising up.