Ribbons I, consists of 6 units made of fabric and wood with different colors and textures. The intricate geometric compositions of these units are made from pants, jackets, socks, blankets and other utility articles used by Siachen soldiers. The work is inspired by the service ribbons of Sachin Bali, a Siachen officer. Each ribbon, consisting of 4 different awards, has a unique design and purpose. They represent acts of bravery and postings completed by Sachin Bali, during his tenure in the Indian Army.

This specific clothing which was worn by soldiers to protect themselves from inhospitable temperatures (as low as -60°Celsius) has been transformed into an award of valour. Ribbons and other such awards are part of a political and social pageantry that support and commemorate diverse acts of heroism. These decorative, multi-coloured, ribbons, raise several questions regarding the value of these awards, within the context of the army. Ribbons I, examines whether or not awards (an external spectacle of bravery) truly reflect a soldier’s actions of protecting and attacking.