Man Up!

People said that an artwork is the artist's expression towards things that are "relatable" to him. For me, art is about channeling a message, it's more about observation, research, and appreciation. For instance, I don't feel "related" to the figure I portray in this painting. But still I want to express my appreciation. This painting is an homage to those who dare to embrace different gender identity, despite the consequences they might face. Being transgender in Indonesia is a life and death matter. Unless you come from a privileged background, that can send you abroad to follow your heart's calling; you will face a great challenge if you choose to change your gender. Especially from male to female. You will end up in the street, being a prostitute, that might have to service a violent truck driver, who will beat the shit out of you during sex. Because you are the only available resort that they can afford to release their angst towards this unfairness of life. You will get a pack of cigarettes or 2 kgs of rice in return. In the daylight, when you are not prostituting, you will work as a street singer that will terrorize people with your terrifying look and horrible sissy voice. Or if you have some skill, you will work in the beauty salon, take care of cis women beauty routine. Indonesia is not ready for this yet. So, a shout out for them who dare to take the risk of bringing the inside out. To man up, and live the value they believe is right. Not so many cis men are that manly to stand up for their principals, and just go with the flow. Man up is not for the faint hearted.