I am hybrid

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I Am Hybrid, 2017 is a series of garments and shoes that delves into the depths of my British and Pakistani diasporic identity, presenting a nuanced exploration of cultural displacement. Through a deliberate fusion of normative Western dress styling with distinctive Pakistani elements, particularly the traditional salwar kameez adorned with the Union Jack, the collection becomes a powerful platform to question and challenge societal norms.

Within this artistic journey, the garments and shoes symbolise more than mere fashion choices—they represent a bold statement, a visual dialogue on acceptance and cultural assimilation. By merging elements from different cultural landscapes, I aim to blur the boundaries and bridge the gaps between societal expectations and personal expression.

The site-specific performances, captured through photography and video documentation, serve as transformative moments of empowerment through embodiment. As I embody the multifaceted layers of my identity, I provoke contemplation and incite conversations about the oppressive forces that often constrain women's bodies and limit their agency. It is a direct activist stance, an invitation to question accepted cultural norms and challenge the status quo.

At the heart of this exploration lies a delicate balance—a juxtaposition between stricter customs symbolised by the salwar kameez and the liberties and lifestyle associated with Western dress. The collection reflects the tension and negotiation between cultural heritage and the desire for acceptance within society. It urges viewers to reflect on their own perceptions and biases, the complexities of cultural fusion and the acceptance of diversity within our collective fabric.