A Thousand Cuts

Derived from the ancient Asian form of torture - “Lingchi”, “A thousand Cuts” present a photographic study of patterns of domestic abuse in the South Asian community. I have borrowed the metaphorical meaning of Lingchi to showcase the cyclical nature of domestic abuse. The continuous act of chipping at the soul of the abused, is expressed by making cuts (with a knife) on the portrait of the participant. The paper used to print the portrait is a thin A4 sheet, depicting the fragility of her existence. The red colour underneath signifies not just martyrdom and strength but also the onset of a new beginning.