Jasmeen Singh

Conformity I

Due to the colonial past, there is an unquestioned practice of adhering to the Cartesian philosophy of 'fixed identities'—the idea that there are distinct parameters that distinguish the 'correct' and 'incorrect' ways of being. Anything that does not fit into these illusionary categorical boxes is considered inferior, backwards or simply wrong. Because this narrative has become deeply embedded in normative culture, it is widely accepted as common knowledge. As a result, many experience an internal tension, continually negotiating and compromising their own identities, while also beginning to recognize the constraints of living in such a reality. “Conformity I” and “Conformity II” speak to the duality of conforming to social normativity.