The Origin of Wayang Kristal
The art of wayang – flat leather puppetry – is closely related to Javane theater. Its characters tells stories usually derived from the Mahabharata and Ramayana epics, but nowadays, new variations are emerging. Some puppeteers use their own storylines, others invent new forms with new materials. One of them is Pak Sardi, who makes puppets
Gudskul: Jakarta’s Evolving Art Ecosystem Nurtures a Thriving Creative Community
Jakarta is a fusion of rich ethnic diversity from across the archipelago, merging local Indonesian distinctions with international cultures and ideas. At the grassroots levels, there is a flourishing creative community, with abundant human potential, a dynamic and evolving infrastructure, and increasingly diverse opportunities. A healthy art and creative scene is essential to any modern megacity
PALAPA Nutmeg Liqueur, a Taste of Indonesia in a Bottle
In recent years, we have seen the rise of locally-produced alcohol in Indonesia. From craft gins to coffee liqueurs, creative minds have infused ingredients from the archipelago to create one-of-a-kind tipples, bridging the gap between nature and innovation. One example is PALAPA Nutmeg Liqueur, a smooth and refreshing blend of Balinese arak infused with nutmeg
ART JAKARTA GARDENS: Art Fair Highlights 3D Works in Lush Open-Air Surroundings
Art Jakarta Gardens, held 23-28 April 2024 amidst the lush greenery at Hutan Kota by Plataran in Semanggi, Jakarta, is a new model of art fair devised in 2022 as a response to the pandemic introducing an exciting and unique format to Southeast Asian art. Art Jakarta Gardens balanced two components. It showcased twenty-three local and
CARE by Patricia Piccinini Set for Exhibition at Museum MACAN
Opening on 25 May 2024, Museum MACAN presents a solo exhibition by globally-recognised Australian artist, Patricia Piccinini, for the first time in Indonesia. Curated by Tobias Berger, the exhibition titled CARE will showcase forty life-size sculptures, three large video installations, along with Celestial Field (2021), a spectacular installation of thousands of flowers. Piccinini’s one-of-a-kind sculptures
Redefining Fashion with MeLookMel and its Baduy Woven Fabric Designs
Though ever popular, branded clothing often overshadows the treasures we find locally-made here in Indonesia. Luxury brands certainly have their appeal and status, but when it comes to finding something truly bespoke and culturally-inspired, there’s a lot left to be desired. Interests are skewed, and Indonesian-made brands aren’t getting the appreciation they deserve, so here
Javara Indonesia: Reviving Indigenous Ingredients of the Archipelago
Javara Indonesia came at a time where the food biodiversity in Indonesia was at a brink of scarcity, answering to cries of help from countless farmers who were grasping to preserve heirloom grains and essential plant genetics that most people have forgotten. Today, we will explore the story about how one woman, Helianti Hilman, fuelled
History and Importance of Rice in Indonesia
Rice holds a special place in the heart of Indonesia. It is a staple in the Indonesian diet, making up half the calories in the average diet and contributes significantly to the livelihoods of millions of Indonesians. Indonesia is the third largest producer of rice in the world. From ancient agricultural practices to modern-day culinary
Awangart’s Sophisticated Fractal Vision Invite Us To Engage With Nature’s Repetitive Designs
Spirals of vibrant circular geometric designs pulsate from central points. Layers of contrasting structured, repetitious patterns fills the canvas with stunning visual information. While we gaze upon the seemingly unknown vistas of movement with dazzling colour alongside earthy tones, cosmic landscapes and natural elements such as flowers and leaves remind us of home. We engage
East Indies Gin: Embark on a Sensory Odyssey
Step into a world of sensory delight with East Indies Gin, created by Spice Distilling Co., Indonesia’s first authentic craft distillery. The distillery’s focus lies in sourcing the finest botanicals from across the Indonesian archipelago, harnessing the diverse and rich flavours indigenous to this tropical paradise, and in so doing, becoming a pioneer in crafting
Cultural Imlek Celebrations and Destinations in Jakarta
What is Imlek? This auspicious day, locally known as ‘Imlek’, is enthusiastically celebrated by the majority of the ethnic Chinese community across Indonesia, with festivities spanning from vibrant decorations and culinary delights to cultural traditions. These celebrations draw people from diverse backgrounds, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity. In Jakarta, the jubilation extends to
W.G. Hofker’s Artistic Odyssey and the Cultural Tapestry that Inspired Him
European painters have long been captivated by the beauty of Indonesia. The stunning landscapes and rich colorful heritage have served as an inspiration for many renowned artists throughout history. In this article, Sake Santema from Indies Gallery presents a few works from his collection by Willem G Hofker, whose life and work became deeply intertwined
In Focus: Bandung Contemporary Artist Alfiah Rahdini
A young Indonesian lady wearing a hijab sits crossed-legged, making the Dharmachakra mudra hand gesture, meditating on a yoga mat positioned upon a lotus throne. The beautiful life-sized sculpture, ‘Sri Naura Paramita,’ its creator stylised as the subject, is immediately compelling, tinged with light-heartedness, yet packs a mighty blow. The sculpture by emerging Bandung multi-disciplined
