Maya: The Birth of a Superhero

The immersive installation is an odyssey of womanhood and femininity, referencing ancient symbols of spiritual and feminine power, drawing together the real and the imaginary to trace possible paths to resilience and justice.
This event is free, places are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Note: virtual reality headsets are designed for ages 13+. This installation contains some flashing images.

Created and co-directed by renowned artist and women rights activist, Poulomi Basu and co-directed by CJ Clarke, ‘Maya: The Birth of a Superhero’ stars Indira Varma (Game of Thrones), Charithra Chandran (Bridgerton) and Florrie Antoniou. The experience recently received a ‘Special Jury Mention Award’ at the Tribeca Film Festival in the New Voices Immersive Competition. With the arrival of her first period, Maya’s world is turned upside down as she is confronted by the restrictive traditions of her conservative family, and a world of hidden shame, stigma and taboo to be found in contemporary London. This is the story of South Asian girls coming of age and the awakening of her sexuality. She must overcome her own shame and fear to find her inner strength and true super-powers.

‘Maya: The Birth of a Superhero’ decolonises the super hero genre, representing a South Asian character with power and agency. The work is inspired by Poulomi Basu’s law changing impact art project ‘Blood Speaks’ about menstrual exile and violence against women in South Asia.

Part of London Design Festival and Digital Design Weekend at V&A South Kensington
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