How do abstract artists reinterpret teak’s colonial trade history through fragmented forms?
Abstract artists often engage with historical narratives by deconstructing and reimagining them through fragmented forms. Teak wood, deeply tied to colonial trade history, becomes a powerful medium for such reinterpretations. By breaking down the material and its associated legacy into disjointed shapes and textures, artists challenge linear historical perspectives. These fragmented forms evoke the disrupted lives and economies of colonized regions, while also questioning the commodification of natural resources. Through abstraction, the artists not only critique colonial exploitation but also reclaim the narrative, offering a layered, emotional response to teak’s complex past. The resulting works invite viewers to reflect on history’s fractures and the enduring impact of colonial trade.
