Presence of what; Absence of whom 

In Presence of what; Absence of whom, St. Louis-based, Indian-born interdisciplinary artist Sukanya Mani presents her most intimate side by using clusters of undulating paper and fabric forms to retell the daily rituals and traditions that shaped her identity as an immigrant woman. Following her commitment to raising awareness about domestic abuse, with a highlight on immigrant and refugee populations, Mani asks the visitors to question the repeated rituals each of us performs to present our own versions of masculinity and femininity. This exhibition is an investigation of identity and meaning making through rituals, clothing over time. 

Add On: Paper Workshop with the Artist 

FEB 9 | 3:00–5:00PM | $10

Ages 13+ 

Participants create their own paper-cut sculpture using Sukanya Mani’s technique. During the session, the artist guides a reflection on how transforming the violent act of cutting into an act of creation is a technique that can be used for self-discovery and storytelling.