Pottu, designed by Milani Lawrence, is an immersive fashion exhibition that explores the impacts of generational trauma from the Sri Lankan civil war.
Through thoughtful design decisions and utilizing fashion as an interactive tool for storytelling, this project sought to foster healing, awareness, and a deeper understanding of these profound issues, while promoting a renewed sense of identity.
The “Pottu” exhibition, conceptualized by Sri Lankan designer Milani Lawrence, delved into the enduring effects of generational trauma stemming from the Sri Lankan civil war. This immersive exhibition utilized fashion as a medium to narrate the transformation from constriction to liberation, incorporating culturally significant motifs and symbolic techniques. Milani’s goal was to promote awareness, healing, and a redefined sense of identity for those impacted.
Motivated by a profound commitment to instigate change, Milani Lawrence combined fashion and storytelling to address these complex issues. Through meticulous design choices, she highlighted the importance of comprehending the long-term impacts of generational trauma and the need for cultural reclamation. The exhibition created a platform for reflection and conversation, encouraging visitors to connect deeply with narratives of resilience and cultural pride.
Celebrating the liberated woman. Social media page: pottu.sl Designer IG account: @miiaa.lawrence
Chapter 01: “Kalaham – A troubled self”
In the depths of troubled beginnings, amidst knots of confusion, lies the resilience to unravel, to find light within the entanglement.
Chapter 02: “Odukkam – Constricted”
Within societal confines, the journey to break free begins. Tightened threads yield whispers of liberation, a shedding of old constraints, a step towards freedom.
Chapter 03: “Vetkai – Desire”
Amidst the shadows of generational silence, emerges the yearning soul, craving the light of cultural belonging. Shedding layers of denial, it embarks on a journey of liberation, akin to a butterfly breaking free from its cocoon.
Chapter 04: “Thedal – Seek”
A pivotal phase where the search for answers leads to liberation from the constraints of the past. Shedding layers of constriction, individuals embrace clarity and self-discovery, moving closer to the light of emancipation.
Chapter 05: “Thulakkam – Clarity”
Embrace clarity, and celebrate heritage. Shedding layers, finding belonging. Thulakkam: A journey to clarity and cultural pride
Chapter 06: “Vizhi – Awaken”
The journey reaches its pinnacle of collective healing and self-reclamation. Here, one emerges fully awakened, embracing their cultural pride with profound awareness.
