How do rattan animal sculptures engage with postcolonial reinterpretations of craft?
Rattan animal sculptures serve as a powerful medium for postcolonial reinterpretations of craft, bridging traditional techniques with contemporary narratives of decolonization. These sculptures, often handmade by artisans from formerly colonized regions, reclaim indigenous craftsmanship while challenging Eurocentric art hierarchies. By transforming rattan—a material deeply rooted in local ecosystems—into symbolic animal forms, artists subvert colonial legacies and celebrate cultural resilience. The process itself becomes an act of resistance, merging ancestral knowledge with modern artistic expression. Such works not only preserve endangered craft traditions but also redefine their value in global art discourse, fostering dialogue about identity, heritage, and autonomy in postcolonial contexts.
