Ratu

"A thousand temples, in one night,

Build them all before the light.”

Ratu symbolises a strong sense of identity and heritage in the region, and carries with it a strong cultural significance. In Indonesia, the honour dates back to the early Majapahit empire. Traditionally, 'ratu' was a title bestowed upon queens and distinguished female figures, denoting their importance in governance and cultural life.

In this artwork, we chose to honour the legendary Roro Jonggrang — capturing the pivotal moment of Roro Jonggrang’s defiance against Bandung Bondowoso. In a moment of pure ingenuity, she manipulates the elements of the night to outwit the supernatural forces that threaten her autonomy. Illuminated by the fires she commands, she stands tall against the backdrop of the incomplete thousandth temple, her gaze resolute. Combining unorthodox AI imaginations of characters from the folktale and illustration of Roro Jonggrang, this scene encapsulates her courage and resilience, reframing her act as a powerful resistance against the calamity and sorrow inflicted upon her.

This artwork was exhibited as part of an installation, in collaboration with Indonesian artists Hardiwan and Gia for the exhibition "Dari Ruang Yang-Antara" in Galeri Kelas Pagi Yogyakarta, Indonesia.