ASSEMBLING THE SHARDS OF IDENTITY SAFE SPACE

• Main Author: Mohamed M Roshdi Subaih, Nayera
• Format: Theses
• Language: Indonesia
• Online Access: https://digilib.itb.ac.id/gdl/view/82904
• Institution: Institut Teknologi Bandung

This artistic research explores "Kintsugi Identity," inspired by the Japanese art of Kintsugi, where broken objects are repaired with golden lacquer, celebrating imperfections and symbolizing selfacceptance. The study delves into the complexities of human identity, focusing on individuals navigating various cultural, national, and personal identities. These identities, ranging from gender, ethnicity, and nationality to religious beliefs, professions, and political affiliations— whether inherited or acquired—often lead to internal conflicts and psychological challenges. The research aims to understand how individuals manage these diverse identities and how the Kintsugi metaphor can integrate these fragments into a cohesive whole. The study employs perspectives from psychology, philosophy, and cultural studies, using qualitative methods culminating in a unique art project. This project expands and transcends the traditional meaning of Kintsugi as a technique for repairing ceramics, using it as a metaphorical framework to unite fragments of personal and cultural identity. This artistic approach allows individuals to explore and celebrate the integration of their diverse identities, transforming scars into symbols of strength and growth. Additionally, it connects the concept of Kintsugi Identity with the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which emphasizes beauty in imperfection over time. This research makes a significant contribution to academia by offering a new perspective on identity and resilience, providing insights into navigating diverse identities and related challenges using art as a transformative tool. The artistic research employs ceramic installation as a new metaphorical framework to represent personal growth and self-acceptance in relation to personal and cultural identity fragments. It encourages individuals to explore the complexities of their identities and celebrate their scars as symbols of strength and growth.