Citra Sasmita, Timur Merah Project XII: Light Speed and Revelation, 2024. On view at Collision Gallery as part of the Toronto Biennial of Art. Commissioned by the Toronto Biennial of Art. Photography: Toni Hafkenscheid.
We are pleased to announce the participation of Balinese artist Citra Sasmita at the 3rd Toronto Biennial of Art, presenting two commissioned projects: 'Timur Merah Project XII: Light Speed and Revelation' a site specific installation at Collision Gallery and 'Esoteric Dance' a set of three paintings at 32 Lisgar St and Park.
Composed of Kamasan paintings, Python snakeskin and neon lamps, ''Timur Merah Project XII' explores the interplay between Balinese mythology and spirituality, juxtaposed with Western concepts of technological progress, highlighting the coexistence of these diverse cultural elements. The piece is part of her Timur Merah series, translated as “The East is red” in English, a long-term project that seeks to trace and reinterpret the historical narratives of Indonesia and Bali.
Rooted in the Kamasan pictorial language, Sasmita's work seeks to unravel the myths of Balinese culture and history, inviting the public to question the patriarchal and colonial legacies of Indonesia.
