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
Celebrating Jakarta’s 490th Anniversary with Srihadi Soedarsono’s Jayakarta
Once upon a morning in 1975, Jakarta Governor Ali Sadikin arrived at Jakarta’s pavilion at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, which was going to be officiated by President Soeharto later that afternoon. Several paintings had been installed there as part of an exhibition held in conjunction with the event. The governor arrived early that day to
Betawi Store Telling Stories Of Jakarta
Through its goods on display, such as colourful souvenirs, traditional food and drinks, clothes as well as furniture, Betawi Store, which is located inside a traditional Betawi house, showcases the cultural richness of Betawi people (the term Betawi is derived from Batavia, the official name given to Jakarta by the Dutch during the colonial era).
The Mystery of Jambi Batik
Jambi, on the east coast of central Sumatra, has a textile tradition shrouded in mystery. In fact, Jambi seems to have had two textile traditions: the tradition of lembato yellow and indigo blue batiks discovered by the Dutch in the 1920s – which nearly died out by the time the Japanese invaded in 1942 –
Didier Hamel Live Art, Breathe Art
Engaging in artistic activities, such as painting, drawing or sculpting has been found effective to prevent memory loss as well as maintain cognitive health, according to a 2015 study published in Neurology, a medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. That article had always been an afterthought to me, until I met Didier Hamel-
Artist Nita Nursita Inspired by Now! Jakarta
I was recently approached by a very gentle and charming lady in Bali airport. “Excuse Me”, she said “are you Alistair Speirs”? “Yes” I answered, having no idea who she was but wanting to be polite! It turned out she was an artist called Nita Nursita, and her story was quite intriguing! It seems she
