“Lady Agnisa” – The Story Behind
Status: Piezography
Agnisa is the name of the headscarf worn by the lady in red. It is a symbol of cultural heritage.
The Agnisa is part of the traditional Surinamese-Creole attire known as the Koto Misi. During slavery, enslaved women were forced to cover their bodies with it. Today it is worn during festive and commemorative moments.
In Suriname this day is called Keti Koti, which means “Break the chains” – a moment of reflection and freedom. In the United States it is known as Juneteenth. Slavery ended on July 1, 1863 in Suriname and on June 19, 1865 in the US. These historic moments are reflected in her Agnisa through symbols such as a hand with broken chains, the Surinamese flag and the years marking the abolition of slavery—references to freedom and identity.
The Agnisa can be tied in different ways, each carrying its own meaning. In the past it even served as a silent form of communication between women, and sometimes with men.
This symbolism fascinated me and inspired this work. I deliberately chose a style that represents: “What your heart keeps, you cannot see on your face – let them talk.” The painting is inspired by one of my first works from the Barcode series, titled “Dare to be yourself.” In this version I introduced more movement and rhythm, giving the work life, strength and joy.
The woman radiates confidence and vitality. She wears what makes her happy, simply because it feels right. She represents a modern woman who effortlessly blends tradition with contemporary style.
With pride she carries her cultural heritage, alongside a designer handbag and a mobile phone—symbols of the present where technology and individuality meet. Another woman carries a baby on her back in a sling, happily enjoying a lollipop—a playful nod to a changing society. Among the crowd stands Sophie, the first humanoid robot, symbolizing the growing presence of technology and artificial intelligence in our lives.
I portrayed the people in this work in an inclusive way. Regardless of origin, skin color, culture, gender or body type, we are all different, with our own rituals, beliefs and style. Yet beneath all those layers we are simply human.
This work reflects my daily impressions—a harmonious blend of reality and imagination. Joy, connection, humor and playfulness form the heart of my work.
As humans, every action we take shapes the world around us. We all have a choice, choose wisely.
Mala Ramcharan
Mala.ramcharan26@gmail.com
(+031) 6 13 27 24 05
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Inspired by the barcode, I transform it into a visual language that tells a story about Humanity – Equality – Connection
The barcode is an abstract translation of real information, with the punch card as its predecessor and the QR code (Quick Response) as its successor.
In my art, I translate this in my own way into realism and fiction, reflecting the innovative and constantly evolving society of our time in topics such as science, AI, inclusion, fashion, and the changing timeline of our era.
Through my art, I create awareness, stimulate self-reflection, and connect art with people and society.
My contribution to society is that for more than twenty years I am supporting underprivileged children with education and essential resources for a better future through my Shoe Project.
An additional element that makes my work unique is that the longer you look, the more hidden details and surprises reveal themselves.
