Yati Kaprawi carves out her own meaning of Merdeka

Yati Kaprawi, a 60-year-old multidisciplinary artist and women’s rights activist, has found a new interpretation of Malaysia’s Merdeka Day. Instead of confining the concept to flags, anniversaries, or well-known symbols, she explores the idea of independence in a more personal context. For Yati, Merdeka encompasses not just national freedom, but also the ability to live safely, make personal choices, and enjoy time that truly belongs to oneself.

Recently, Yati showcased her thoughts in a 15-piece printmaking exhibition titled "Puan-Tastic Festival" held at GMBB in Bukit Bintang. The artist chose this medium to delve into the lives and contributions of notable Malaysian women, many of whom have been overlooked in mainstream historical narratives.

Among the 15 prints, some feature prominent Malaysian women, drawing from research conducted by academic, social anthropologist, and women’s rights activist Rusaslina Idrus. Rusaslina was a co-founder of Sejarah Wanita, a digital project established in 2012 aimed at preserving the stories of women whose contributions have often been downplayed in the country’s historical accounts.

Creating this body of work posed a significant challenge for Yati, as she had to condense rich historical journeys into single images. Moreover, she had to ensure that the visuals captured the essence of each woman's story while also attracting the attention of viewers. By selecting block printing as her medium, Yati aimed to encourage more women artists to continue working in this traditional yet impactful art form.

Its hands-on nature also appealed to her as an exhibition that focuses on history, memory, and the impact of people's actions.

Yati believes that art can make history feel more relatable, especially for younger generations who may primarily know important figures through textbooks or brief online references. By bringing their stories to life through her art, Yati hopes to pique the interest of visitors and inspire them to delve deeper into the lives of those who shaped Malaysia’s history. Furthermore, she emphasizes the importance of recognizing the role of women in the country’s development and social evolution.