BEHIND THE SEEN
GROUP EXHIBITION AT ARTOTEL THAMRIN,
SEPTEMBER 26 - DECEMBER 31, 2024
EQUANIMITY:
This frame is filled with the massive weight of structures, strange contorted shapes, and darkness. What is visible in the building is a reflection of the building behind me, symbolizing the past. The light around the person’s silhouette is from the other side of the building, signifying the future. One that resonates is the idea of passed-down societal norms, at times presented as a rule without room for questions. What was the understanding behind them? Are they still valid? The burden of societal expectations can be unbearable for most. Yet, amidst it all, there is a single bright spot: a person, walking leisurely, unburdened. Layered and often warped, these pressures weigh on us, but even so, we must find our path of hope — grace, under pressure.
[80cm x 56cm, Printed on Hahnemuhle Ultra Smooth, Edition 1 of 3]
IN FLUX:
This scene reminds me of the cult classic film Run Lola Run. Forced to race against time she had to do whatever she needs to save her friend. But this is still true in the real world where we are constantly racing against time, most of the time, to make money - the endless rat race, to save one’s self.
[20cm x 30cm, Printed on Hahnemuhle Ultra Smooth, Edition 1 of 5]
CONFLUENCE:
The meaning of confluence, where two rivers meet, often symbolizes love and relationships—a union that strengthens as a whole. The camera captures only a limited spectrum of light, which forces the photographer to choose whether to expose for the light or the darkness. In creating this image, the anchor is the beauty revealed in the beam of light, with its colorful pattern, then allowing something or someone come into the light to strengthen the image. This process reminds me of the universal law of attraction - everything is connected. Manifest + Patience.
[60cm x 40cm, Printed on Gyclee Luster, Edition 1 of 4]
PANOPTICON:
In the United States, neighborhoods with names like 'Heights' or 'District' often have a rough reputation. As I walked through Brooklyn Heights, feeling out of place, I avoided unnecessary eye contact, my senses heightened. Suddenly, I felt eyes on me. Turning around, I saw a mannequin in a store display, as if it had been watching the neighborhood long before I entered its gaze. It made me think about how often we are watched while watching others. In today’s world of constant surveillance, the question is: does knowing we’re always observed change who we are?
[20cm x 25cm, Printed on Hahnemuhle Ultra Smooth, Edition 1 of 5]
FIRST RISER:
I’ve often wondered when I see a new development—a cluster of houses, a new apartment building, an office—how it feels to be the first to occupy that space. The emptiness feels isolating. But it mirrors many of life’s challenges: starting something new, leading, or doing something no one else has done. It is a feeling akin to a loner taking on an unpopular task—great endeavors often lead down a lonely path, demanding perseverance and the belief that doing the right thing will eventually prevail.
[30cm x 45cm, Printed on Hahnemuhle Ultra Smooth, Edition 1 of 5]
PHOTOBOMBER:
Sometimes we don’t know why we do certain things, only to later realize our instincts sensed something before our mind could. I was drawn to the two girls taking a selfie in front of an abysmal wall, feeling compelled to capture the moment. It wasn’t until later that I noticed the cat-shaped shadow in the image, teaching me an important lesson: sometimes we have to trust the process and keep going, and eventually, at the right time and place, the reasons and results will reveal themselves.
[20cm x 30cm, Printed on Gyclee Luster, Edition 1 of 10]
For Inquiries about the availability of these prints, please fill out the form in the main page.
All images © Erwin Darmali