South Sea Pearls: Hidden Gems in Indonesia’s Oceans
The vast oceans of Indonesia contain a lot of marine resources – among others sea pearls, which have high economic value. According to the Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, when it comes to South Sea Pearls, Indonesia is on top of the list as a producer in the world’s pearl market. But unfortunately,
Rifky Effendy Talks about His Curatorial Philosophy
In the local art scene, Rifky “Goro” Effendy is a name to be reckoned with. The 49-year-old curator has played an essential role in many prestigious art exhibitions. In late 2001, he established and directed the 1st Bandung Biennale, and in 2004 became a fellow of the New York-based Asia Cultural Council (ACC). In 2009,
Something’s Coming, Something Good
West Side Story, one of the most beloved and popular musicals of all time, is coming to Jakarta from 12 to 14 May, presented by the Jakarta Performing Arts Community (JPAC). When the musical West Side Story premiered on Broadway in midtown Manhattan, New York City in September 1957, both audience and critics were swept
British Painter Finds Inspiration in Indonesia’s Landscapes
Artistic inspiration can come from many different sources. British painter Siobhan King, the wife of Belgium’s Ambassador to Indonesia, says that her life as a global nomad has had an immense influence on her artistic oeuvre, which ranges from abstraction to realism. “For me, art is where it all began,” Siobhan says. “I’ve been painting
German Filmmakers Explore Indonesia’s Remote Islands
For “5 Islands/ 5 Villages”, young German filmmakers traveled to remote islands of the archipelago to make short films based on their observations. In the second phase of the project, which takes place later this year, Indonesian filmmakers will in return stay in German villages to explore the great unknown. Initiated last year by the
Indonesian Literature in Translation
My first approach to Indonesian Literature in translation came unexpectedly through the Italian book club in Jakarta where we read the book Pulang (Home) by Indonesian female author, Leila S. Chudori. I read the book, I met Leila Chudori personally and after this unforgettable initiation, I joined the Indonesian Literature in Translation Study Group of
Erasmus Huis, A Home for Dutch Culture in Jakarta
Dutch cultural center Erasmus Huis was first established in 1970 in Menteng to strengthen the relationship between the Netherlands and Indonesia, before it was eventually moved to its current premises in Kuningan, South Jakarta. An important establishment in the city’s cultural scene, Erasmus Huis is currently led by Michael Rauner – he is not only
Pullman Jakarta Central Park Playground Showcases Indonesian Artworks
Pullman Jakarta Central Park has transformed its stylish private room Bunk Lobby Lounge into the “Pullman Jakarta Central Park Artist Playground”, which will continuously present works by a variety of artists of different disciplines, from painters and sculptors to videographers, photographers, illustrators and graphic designers. The “Artist Playground” programme is a new initiative with the aim
Showcasing the Quality of European Films
The popular film festival Europe on Screen 2017 returns to Indonesia this May! Film buffs will have the chance to enjoy high quality European movies from 5 to 14 May in six cities across Indonesia, namely Jakarta, Bandung, Denpasar, Medan, Surabaya and Yogyakarta. Already in its 17th edition this year, the festival will be screening 74 films from
Celebrating Europe Day in Indonesia
On 9 May every year, the European Union (EU) celebrates Europe Day as a symbol of peace and unity in Europe. This year is particularly special for EU as the delegation commemorates two occasions; the 60th Anniversary of the Treaties of Rome and the 40th Anniversary of EU-ASEAN Dialogue Relations. This year also marks the 30th Anniversary of the Erasmus
The Art of Modern Calligraphy
Ever since emails and instant messaging through smartphones have become our main tools for communication, handwriting has become less and less important, let alone good penmanship. Unfazed by this development, Veronica Halim has happily explored modern calligraphy and now shares her passion with others through workshops and her recently published book “Calligraphy Styling”. With a
Stay Inspired with French Cultural Centre IFI
Institut Français d’Indonésie (IFI) plays a crucial part in promoting cultural and education exchange between France and Indonesia. This year, the institute promises more diverse and exciting programmes, ranging from discussions and exhibitions to music recitals. “At IFI, we support all cultural activities that involve representation of both countries. In addition to organising our own
Collecting Treasure Maps at Bartele Gallery
Most map collectors start out by filling a blank wall at their home or office,and as their knowledge and interest grows, move on to collecting in earnest. The team behind Bartele Gallery, which is situated on the 2nd floor of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, is happy to introduce you to the fascinating world of antique treasure maps, prints