How do rattan figurative sculptures challenge Western-centric art historical canons?
Rattan figurative sculptures challenge Western-centric art historical canons by introducing materials, techniques, and cultural narratives often marginalized in traditional art discourse. Unlike Western sculptural traditions that prioritize marble or bronze, rattan—a natural, pliable material—embodies sustainability and indigenous craftsmanship. These works often draw from non-Western mythologies, spiritual practices, and communal values, disrupting Eurocentric notions of "high art." By centering non-Western perspectives, rattan sculptures expand the canon, questioning hierarchies of value and visibility in art history. Their growing presence in global exhibitions further underscores the need for inclusive, decolonized frameworks in contemporary art criticism.
