You Are Invited by Ochre (art + design)
"Through 'You Are Invited', I explore the deeply entrenched dowry system in India, exposing its dehumanizing impact on women and how it shapes their societal worth. The book weaves storytelling through poetry, presents statistics on dowry-related violence and deaths, and brings real-life cases to light via QR codes. These dynamic QR codes update annually, ensuring the book evolves with the latest reports and remains a living document of this ongoing issue.
"Intertwined with my own personal experiences, the book also incorporates symbolic elements of Indian weddings-sarees bound within its pages, Hindu prayer mantras, henna patterns, flower petals resting at the bottom of the box, and a final saree infused with itar (Indian perfume). This multi-sensory approach immerses the reader in the beauty and rituals of an Indian wedding while pulling back the curtain to reveal the harsh realities hidden beneath the surface." - Malini Gupta
"You Are Invited" it is second in the series of books on patriarchy in India, following "The Fortune Teller."
Processes, Dimensions, and Edition Information
By Malini Gupta
Portland, Oregon: Ochre (art + design), 2025. Edition of 25.8.25" x 8.25" x 1.5", Part Letterpress printed and part digitally printed on Mohawk Via Felt. Coptic stitch handbound book in a custom pink acrylic box Signed and numbered by the artist.