How do rattan animal sculptures address the legacy of colonial resource extraction?
Rattan animal sculptures serve as a powerful medium to address the historical exploitation tied to colonial resource extraction. By repurposing rattan—a material once heavily harvested under colonial rule—these artworks reclaim cultural narratives and promote sustainability. Artists today use rattan not just for its aesthetic appeal but to highlight the ecological and social impacts of past extraction practices. These sculptures symbolize resilience, transforming a legacy of exploitation into one of creativity and environmental stewardship. Through sustainable craftsmanship, they offer a path toward reconciling with history while advocating for ethical material use in modern art.
