This mixed-media collage is inspired by a letter written in Gurmukhi by an Indian soldier, Kartar Singh (Sikh) and possibly sent to his compatriot, Jhaman Singh (Lyallpur District, Punjab). The letter dated 8^th June 1917, was sent from France to India during the First World War. This letter along with other letters, is part of the book, ‘Indian Voices of the Great War: Soldiers’ Letters, 1914-18’ by David Omissi. The letter along with other details, conveys the complexities of war on the mental health of a soldier; the amazement and power of destruction, combined with the determination to die before dishonour. An extract from the letter reads, “For three years we have experienced many trials and fought in various ways; but the real fighting will commence when we begin to burn their houses and break open their doors and despoil their goods”.

Kartar Singh (Sikh) to Jhaman [?] Singh (Lyallpur District, Punjab) [Gurmukhi] 8th June 1917, was developed during Baptist Coelho’s year-long Artist-in-Residence, supported by and at Fondation Fiminco, Romainville, 2021-22. The residency was also supported by Fonds de Dotation Buchet Ponsoye, Paris; Institut Français, India. The artwork was first exhibited as part of the group exhibition at Fondation Fiminco, Romainville, from 2 June to 3 July 2022. The exhibition was curated by Yomna Osman.