Presiden 2003, 2003
Acrylic on canvas
Collection of Dedy Kusuma

The work presents another perspective on Indonesian society, politics, and religious beliefs during uncertain times. In this case, salvation is not found within society but from outside of it-beyond the human condition, yet necessary precisely because of it.
Through "Presiden 2003" Laksmi expresses her political and spiritual hopes for the future of Indonesia in the guise of a Javanese "Ratu Adil" ("Just King") or an Islamic "Al-Mahdi" ("Awaited One"), a type of messianic warrior.
(Text by Amanda Rath)