Eko Nugroho's Mask Project at STPI Critiques Singaporean Society and Institutional Eurocentrism

Eko Nugroho's initiative, 'We Are What We Mask,' showcased at the Singapore Tyler Print Institute (STPI), utilizes paper masks to examine societal norms and prejudices. Drawing inspiration from traditional Indonesian masks and Mexican Lucha Libre, Nugroho worked alongside STPI to develop sculpted full-face masks. STPI personnel donned these masks, featuring phrases such as 'Obey and be Happy,' in various public locations throughout Singapore, aiming to provoke thoughts on identity related to gender, ethnicity, and religion. The masks serve as a critique of Singaporean values like consumerism and political indifference. Featured in STPI's gallery, this project challenges Eurocentric perspectives in art. Nugroho's diverse artistic endeavors include murals, installations, and the Wayang Bacor project, which was highlighted in ArtReview's November 2013 edition.