Aku Trak is my grandfather (Popo). This work honours the older generation of Tibetans who passed away in exile and Tibet.

Exile Objects:

Did you know? When the elder generation of Tibetans came into exile, they managed to bring with them a few yet precious belongings – small things that connected them to home. Over time, many of these items had to be sold for survival, some were lost along the way, some were buried and hidden under rocks, and some were stolen. Sadly, as these belongings were passed down to younger generations, many have been discarded or replaced, often seen as outdated or unnecessary.

But these aren’t just objects being thrown away; they carry stories, memories, and emotions – pieces of Tibetan knowledge our elders brought. When we lose these objects, we lose connections to our culture and history. Isn’t that concerning?

The centrepiece of the installation is a piece of furniture boldly inscribed with “We are Tibetans”, highlighting the artist’s desire to assert and preserve Tibetan identity.

This installation is built around six such objects, found discarded on the streets of Dharamshala. Each has its own story and reflects the ongoing journey of Tibetan art and culture, capturing the essence of home while adapting to life in exile. This installation recreates a traditional Tibetan room, offering a look into the lives of Tibetans in exile and honouring the heritage that lives on.