Thinking of endings, and beginnings
Locations and Exhibits Visited
- South Asia Institute: Shelly Jyoti – Indigo: The Blue Gold, By our own hand// Through our own hands/ In our own words
The South Asia Institute in Chicago marked the final stop on my journey, and it was poignant. This institute, dedicated to South Asian art, currently features Shelly Jyoti's remarkable work, which meticulously traced the history of indigo color in the region. It was intriguing how this theme resonated with me before, as about four years ago, I had visited the Talpur Tombs in Hyderabad, Pakistan, as part of an architecture class. I vividly recalled my professor, Zain Mustafa, discussing the process of creating indigo dye and its status as an almost extinct art form.
The exhibit itself was nothing short of grandeur. It skillfully wove together the narratives of labor, migration, and colonization through the lens of iconic symbols, all imprinted onto traditional ajrak textiles with roots dating back to the Indus Valley civilization. I couldn't help but draw parallels with my past discussions with Professor Zain, who enlightened me on the genesis of South Asianness stemming from the Indus Valley civilization. This exhibit extended those profound conversations and perfectly concluded my travels.
Zain Mustafa, my mentor and guide, had been instrumental in validating my questions about identity and directing me toward the discipline of anthropology. For that, I am forever grateful. The exhibit itself went even further in illustrating the interconnectedness of South Asian identities. It highlighted the fluid movement of art forms and aesthetics across diverse landscapes and ever-changing boundaries, a testament to the region's richly communal and intertwined past and present. The narratives etched in indigo color explored poetry, drawing, and craftsmanship, harmoniously coming together to depict a collective self. The symbolism, techniques, and stories all converged to construct a cohesive, diverse, and indescribable South Asian identity. It was a profound and fitting culmination of my journey, leaving me with a deep appreciation for the region's complexities of culture and history.
