Gate

Foreign domestic helpers in Singapore are known for their homemaking roles, and gates are ubiquitous with homes, where they spend most of their time. She stands isolated behind the gate.

The backdrop is not exclusively that of a domestic setting, signifying that the barriers do not simply exist in the homes they work in, but possibly across different settings as well.

The gate represents the barrier of cultural differences and norms that sometimes make it difficult for Singaporeans to accept or embrace domestic helpers as equals. This visual separation presents the idea of ‘us versus them’ — as Singaporeans tend towards seeing domestic helpers as ‘others’.

The gate also serves as a symbolic sign of the restrictions and responsibilities placed upon them, and other sacrifices they take upon themselves to provide for their families back home.

This still establishes eye contact between the audience and the domestic helper, who holds a pensive and forlorn gaze. With the diamond shape in the gate framing her eyes, the impact is magnified. Eye contact is a provoking tool used to ensure memorability of what she has sacrificed — grappling with a lack of belonging and personal freedom she undertakes for her family.