ERNESTO SUMARKHO
These Dreams Are Not Only Mine
Eternal Faces
The Chorus of a Million Souls
Encapuchados
Biophilia
Info
Eternal Faces [2024]
Traditionally Javanese topeng masks are used in dance performances and ceremonies concerning ancient fables. The most popular storyline of topeng masks is derived from the Javanese Panji cycles, based on the tales and romance of Prince Panji and Princess Sekartaji, set in the 12th-century Kediri kingdom. That story is still told today.
Drawing inspiration from the Panji tales and in collaboration with mask makers, performers and villagers of the Jambuwer, Jambung, Pakisaji and Tumpang villages from the Malang Regency in East Java and Yogyakarta in Central Java, each participant wears a mask embodying a character against backdrops of their contemporary life. A staged reality weaving everyday and ancient storytelling. Reflecting the story’s central themes of disguise, hidden identity, and transformation while encapsulating the dualities of concealment and revelation, individuality and archetype, and humanity and divinity.