Rite of Passage, Irene Ho

This portrait captures the resilience of Taiwanese indigenous women adorned in traditional marriage clothing, a composition inspired by a profound encounter with old photographs depicting their early marriages, stirring reflection on societal roles. Processed with ink and desaturated colors, the artwork emanates a solemn and nostalgic atmosphere, inviting viewers to contemplate the impact of early matrimony. The attire, intricately crafted by mothers, not only pays homage to the matriarchal traditions observed in indigenous communities, as explored in the previous piece, but also prompts a thought-provoking exploration of reversed roles, immersing the viewer in the emotional echoes of these women's lived experiences.