By Adrianna Haris

Les Éclipsées: A Tribute to Forgotten Women by Zoé Vayssières at AFKL

A stirring reminder of resilience, silence, and legacy.
Les Éclipsées

French artist Zoé Vayssières brings her evocative exhibition, Les Éclipsées, to the Alliance Française Kuala Lumpur (AFKL). A graduate of the prestigious National Superior School of Decorative Arts in Paris, Vayssières is known for her conceptual, narrative-driven work that explores the delicate intersections of memory, time, and invisibility. Her artistic approach often incorporates engraved texts and layered materials, such as copper plates, symbolising the lasting yet fragile nature of memory and the quiet imprints people leave behind. 

During Vayssières’ two-week residency in Malaysia, the French artist delves into the stories of 100 remarkable women spanning over 43 centuries. Les Éclipsées honours these forgotten figures, including 30 Malaysian women. Among them are individuals from the 15th to 19th centuries, such as Tun Kudu, Datu Menteri Babu, and Mahsuri; the 20th century, including Lim Beng Hong and Fatimah Hamid Don; as well as legendary personas like Hang Li Po. From poets and authors to scientists and activists, these women reflect a range of contributions that have gone largely unnoticed, each a vital thread in the fabric of their communities and cultures.

Presented through minimalist, site-specific art installations, her work subtly interacts with its environment to create a dialogue between the artwork and the space it inhabits. The exhibition invites visitors into this quiet, contemplative space, prompting them to reconsider how history is written and whose voices are heard. It’s both a tribute and a call to attention, a poignant reminder of the many powerful women who have shaped our world and how easily they can be erased. It also raises questions about whose histories are chosen to be remembered—and why.

Here’s a glimpse into the exhibition:

Les Éclipsées runs at AFKL from 16 April until 9 May. The launch is at 7:30pm and is free to attend via RSVP

For more information, visit AFKL’s official website.

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