They Give Evidence 証　[Mereka Memberi Kesaksian]

Four well-built figures stand firmly upon the ground. Their thick arms hold husks of human beings. These male and female figures wear quiet, innocent smiles, but what are they trying to tell us? This work was originally created for the exhibition "Art in Southeast Asia 1997" at the Museum. At the show, it was composed of 20 figures and was accompanied by the following words of the artist: "In memory of the victims of violence.... If you find this work worthwhile, please leave a flower, a piece of paper, a handkerchief, or something you have been wearing at the base of a statue." In response to this message, many visitors left various offerings, embodying their prayer, mourning, or regrets. The artist has produced works that are based on the values of village communities in Indonesia and inspired by social situations that surround the Indonesian people. But this work does not try to denounce violence at a particular time or place. These figures quietly stand as if they have witnessed historical events from time unknown, simply presenting us with evidence of violence and reminding us of its universal existence.rn