(Waria) CHAPTER 2: cameos

Indonesia, 2012-2018

Cameo is a jewel made through the engraving of a stratified stone (typically onyx) or a shell, generally with an oval shape. The term comes from the Arabic word gama’il (flower bud). Yet, the word “cameo” also states for the brief appearance of a famous character in a theatrical show or in a film, where the character generally interprets, but not always, himself.

To me, cameo represents a small precious memory, catching the essential tracts of someone’s character or resemblance. This series of portraits aims at preserving the impression of the fleeting encounter between me and these old waria people.