In the vibrant tapestry of Indonesia’s cultural mosaic, Jakarta-based photographer Nicoline Patricia Malina brings forth an evocative portrait series that redefines and celebrates Indonesian femininity. Her project, “Puan”, is a visual symphony that captures the essence of Indonesian women with grace and authenticity. Through her lens, Malina highlights the understated beauty and resilience of women hailing from diverse ethnic backgrounds across the archipelago. Her work challenges the conventional standards perpetuated by the fashion and beauty industries, which often marginalize varied representations of beauty. By showcasing these varied faces, Malina invites viewers to appreciate the multitude of stories etched in the expressions and postures of Indonesian women, crafting a narrative that is both personal and universally resonant.
In a country bursting with over 1,300 ethnic groups, each with its unique traditions and appearances, Malina’s portraits are a much-needed departure from the homogeneous ideals prominently featured in media. Her photographs humanize and celebrate the imperfections, tones, and silhouettes that define each woman, effectively dismantling the narrow beauty standards that prioritize fair skin and specific body types. The lighting in her portraits often evokes a soft radiance, accentuating the natural allure and individuality of each subject without overshadowing their authentic selves. “Puan” thus stands as both an artistic and social commentary — a gentle yet powerful advocacy for representation and diversity, urging the fashion and beauty industries to embrace and reflect the true spectrum of Indonesian beauty.
With a country as diverse as Indonesia, 1,300 ethnic groups spread out in 6000 island, we would expect a diversity in beauty representation. However, that wasn’t the case in fashion and beauty industry. Magazine editorials and advertisements for beauty products that focus on the brightness of skin color and certain body type; television shows that show the superiority of those with brighter colored skin, are only a few examples that we can see.
Nicoline Patricia Malina
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