The Message Behind “Sunk in Stone”

The message behind “Sunk in Stone” is a commentary on the effects of indoctrination and religious oppression. The performance highlights the ways in which religious communities can use their beliefs to control and manipulate individuals. Often leading to violence and oppression. The use of nudity in the performance represents vulnerability and the stripping away of societal norms and expectations. It is a way for Mukarno to expose the raw emotions and experiences that he has gone through. The stones that cover his body represent the weight of oppression and the ways in which it can suffocate and kill a person’s spirit. The performance is a powerful reminder that we must be vigilant in protecting our freedom of thought and expression. We must work to create communities that are inclusive and accepting of all individuals, regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds.

Religious Oppression and Indoctrination

Religious oppression and indoctrination are serious issues that affect many individuals and communities around the world. They can lead to violence, discrimination, and the suppression of individual freedoms. It is important to recognize the ways in which religious beliefs can be used to control and manipulate individuals. To work towards creating communities that are inclusive and accepting of all individuals, regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds.

The Role of Art in Addressing Religious Oppression

Art has the power to shed light on important social issues, including religious oppression and indoctrination. Through their art, artists like Philemon Mukarno can express their experiences and raise awareness about the dangers of religious oppression. Art can also provide a space for individuals to explore their own beliefs and experiences. To connect with others who have gone through similar struggles.
It also shows the paradoxical nature of religion: it can be a source of comfort and guidance. But also a cause of suffering and conflict. Mukarno says that he had to follow the religion to become a better person, but he ends up losing his life and identity because of it. The removal of the stones at the end suggests that there is a possibility of liberation and transformation, but also a sense of loss and emptiness.

The Impact of ‘Sunk in Stone’

‘Sunk in Stone’ has a strong impact on the audience who witness it live or online. It challenges them to reflect on their own relationship with religion and how it affects their lives and others. It also raises awareness about the plight of people who suffer from religious oppression and violence around the world. It invites them to empathize with their pain and struggle and to support their rights and dignity.

The performance ‘Sunk in Stone’ is an example of how art can be a powerful tool for social change and justice. It uses the body as a language that transcends words and borders and communicates a universal message of human suffering and hope. It is a testimony of the artist’s courage and creativity and a tribute to the resilience and spirit of all those who resist religious oppression and violence.

Conclusion

It is a powerful and thought-provoking performance that sheds light on the dangers of religious oppression and indoctrination. It is a reminder that we must be vigilant in protecting our freedom of thought and expression, and that we must work to create communities that are inclusive and accepting of all individuals, regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds. Art has an important role to play in addressing these issues, and we must continue to support and uplift artists who use their art to create positive change in the world.