Dinda Mulia
Lights, Camera, Action! Australian Independent School Jakarta Hosts Immersive Film Festival
In today’s digital era, visual storytelling has become the universal language of the new generation. At the Australian Independent School (AIS) in Pejaten, South Jakarta, creating space for young filmmakers to explore their craft and share their work is essential. This is shown through their recent AIS Film Festival, an immersive weeks-long event that gives
Natasha Tontey Explores the Roots of Ritual
Indigenous rituals and practices are often taken out of context, exploited or exhibited for their aesthetic and exotic appeal. In reality, such traditions are rooted in ancient wisdom and a cultural identity that tells a much deeper story. This is a message that contemporary artist Natasha Tontey conveys through her art. Tontey reclaims her Minahasan
Uncovering the History of Jakarta’s Northern Coastline
It’s easy to think of Jakarta as a sprawling metropolis of traffic and skyscrapers, but step towards the northern coastline, and you’ll uncover a different story—one where history and folklore collide. To the northwest, sites like Museum Kebaharian Jakarta (Maritime Museum) and Kota Intan Bridge stand as remnants of a colonial past and the glory
Biomaterials, Brewed Better: Bell Living Lab’s Innovative Use of Coffee Byproducts
Most wouldn’t think twice about the pulp left behind after brewing coffee, which is usually discarded without a second thought. But for Bell Living Lab, waste isn’t waste at all; it’s raw potential waiting to be turned into something valuable. This Bandung-based biomaterials producer is quietly reshaping the materials industry by taking agricultural waste and
Best Animal Parks in Jakarta: Wildlife Adventures in the Concrete Jungle
Jakarta may be a concrete jungle, but the city has no lack of opportunities for its residents to engage with the wonders of nature, especially children and families. NOW! Jakarta has come up with a list of immersive attractions that connect visitors with a range of flora and fauna. From exploring five distinct ecosystems to
Made by Margaret Yap: Shaping Stories and Purpose with Clay
6th-century Chinese philosopher Laozi, in his book Tao Te Ching, once said, “The potter shapes clay into vessels; on the wheel of life, we too are formed, bearing both beauty and purpose.” For Margaret Yap and Steven The – founders of Made by Margaret Yap Pottery-Ceramic Art Studio – like humans, pottery should be valued not
Searching for Indonesia’s Forgotten Kingdoms with Randall Rutledge’s New Book
For many Indonesians, our history is often divided into two distinct periods: pre-independence; marked by countless bloody battles to resist occupation by Dutch and Japanese colonial forces, and post-independence; the era of political turmoil foretold by Sukarno, who correctly predicted that the struggle against our own nation would be far harder than fighting external enemies.
Why Jakarta Needs Art Communities, with Ayu Utami of Salihara Art Centre
What does Jakarta need to do in order to be recognised as a cultural city? In this opinion series, NOW! Jakarta hears from the leaders of the city’s artistic institutions to gain insight into fostering and developing specific areas of culture. Ayu Utami of Salihara Art Centre talks to us about art communities and festivals.
Jakarta’s Cultural Communities: Seeking the Artistic Connection
Jakarta’s cultural communities know that the very essence of art is community: it can only thrive on human connection and inter-activity. It can also bridge divides and unite differences. And in a world where rapidly evolving technologies are in fact isolating us further from each other, we must find ways to connect and engage in
Best Jakarta Workshops: Create Your Own Bespoke Gifts
If you’re looking for something unique to do over the weekend, why not join one of the many Jakarta workshops available in the city? From working with ceramics to learning the ins and outs of scents and smells, there are many opportunities to learn new skills and discover a unique hobby. Whether you’re looking to
The Seven Beaches of Kanigoro: A Journey Through Yogyakarta’s Mystic Coastline
It is not difficult to find breathtaking destinations in Indonesia. From the serene shores of the far west to the majestic mountain landscapes of the east, one might easily wonder if God devoted extra attention to crafting this exotic archipelago. Yet beauty alone does not suffice; the allure of Indonesia’s tourist destinations is often deepened
Fermenting, an Industry
Indonesia has a deep-rooted tradition in fermentation, a culinary process that is found across a range of local food and beverage items. Whilst nations like France and South Korea have been able to showcase their own ‘fermented products’, be it wine or kimchi, on the global stage, Indonesia is yet to proudly champion their own.
A Local Brand’s Global Surge: Fuguku Makes Waves with Its “Way of Water” at Coterie New York
Jakarta-based brand Fuguku is set to make waves with their collection “Way of Water” at the prestigious Coterie fashion trade show in New York City from 22-24 September 2024. This avant-garde fashion brand will showcase their unique blend of sustainability, artistry and bold design, proving that there is more to Indonesia’s fashion than just batik
