“Why do we fear our own power as women? The Monstrous Feminine asks. At its core, this concept challenges the one-dimensional portrayal of women which implant deep-rooted anxieties surrounding femininity. Standing as a personification of rebellion, it empowers individuals to be unapologetically themselves in a world that forcefully fits us into prescribed moulds.

TEXT BY HAYLEY RIKKE LEE AND SERA MEI YAN

Following the rich history of Southeast Asian culture, the Monstrous Feminine takes shapes in the haunting folklore of the Pontianak. The narrative unfolds with her tragic backstory, revealing the betrayal she endured from men prior to her demise. Paradoxically, she becomes an antagonist to be feared, overshadowing the suffering she experienced. This story, however, serves as more than a chilling tale; it functions as a looking glass into our society, revealing how such ingrained norms manifest in ways that challenge or reinforce taught perspectives.

The Pontianak folklore encourages us to re-examine the limiting narratives of women as either victims or victors. The Monstrous Feminine challenges this notion, posing the question,

This inquiry compels us to explore a fresh perspective on embracing authenticity, where both strength and vulnerability beautifully coexist.

As the spotlight shines on our crusade, we feature performance artist—Sonia Kwek—who showcases her unique interpretation of the multifaceted concept through her craft.

Her raw and emotional performance serves as a rallying cry for women everywhere, empowering them to celebrate their genuine selves and stand tall against oppressive ideals. In the face of the Monstrous Feminine, we find ourselves an opportunity for transformation, a chance to break the shackles of convention and to redefine female identity on our own terms.

INTERVIEW BY HAYLEY RIKKE LEE AND SERA MEI YAN

WHAT DID YOU AIM TO CONVEY THROUGH THIS PERFORMANCE?

‍My movement performance was in response to the central theme of the Monstrous Feminine. It advocates for women empowerment, which I really resonated with, and the idea of haunting the patriarchy came to me.IInspired by the mythological figure Pontianak, some of my movements referenced how she might break free, confront and devour. Just like how the Pontianak returned in power as a spirit after undergoing trauma, you can be bound and still re-emerge in your own way. Others can reduce, shame and destroy you, but I believe that the spirit within you cannot be taken away.I also wanted to show that women can tap into their body’s sensuality as a power. I incorporated sensual body and facial expression, intentionally exaggerating some to the point of distortion.


CAN YOU SHARE ANY SPECIFIC EXPERIENCES OR MOMENTS THAT INSPIRED YOUR CREATION OF THIS PIECE?

Through the red rope that bound me, I expressed a tone of visual tension and released that through the vibrations of my body. The long braids also felt like an extension of my body, inspiring me to imagine myself as a mystical being, much like a magnificent phoenix with a long tail!


THROUGH OUR CAMPAIGN—RAKSASA—CENTRED ON THE “MONSTROUS FEMININE” FOR WOMEN TO CHALLENGE SOCIETAL NORMS, DO YOU THINK YOUR ARTISTIC MEDIUM EMPOWERS YOU AS A WOMAN IN A PATRIARCHAL SOCIETY?

Yes, I do feel that the medium of performance making allows me to write my own narrative, to reimagine what female identity can mean - again and again. In my opinion, what’s powerful about using movement is that it’s an expression unique to each individual’s body—our archives and patterns are distinct to each person, which I find very beautiful. Society often restricts women’s bodies and femininity, so being able to explore, embrace and express that on my own terms is empowering to me.

However, I think it is also important that women should not be burdened to redefine their female identities if they are not compelled to. These days, there is a lot of unsaid pressure for a woman to be empowered, beautiful, or presented in a particular way.

‍“I think a woman should be able to feel the right to exist as they are, in a way that makes sense for them, without constantly having to be something.”‍