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Universal signals detected at ARTJOG 2016
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A futuristic artwork composed of machine parts leads people to another dimension at ARTJOG 2016. (The Jakarta Post/Stefanus Ajie)
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ogyakarta is presently a melting pot of national and international artists exhibiting their work at ARTJOG 2016. The contemporary art exhibition, which presents a variety of works, from paintings, sculpture and installation art to other conceptual pieces, is being held at the Jogja National Museum’s gallery from May 27 to June 27. A total of 97 artworks from 72 artists are on display at the event.
Famous names featured at the event include Garin Nugroho, Agan Harahap, Davi Linggar, Nasirun, FX Harsono, Agus Suwage and senior painter Joko Pekik.
The first eye-catcher is a blower-like installation that welcomes visitors to the event, and another iconic landmark of ARTJOG 2016, featuring a futuristic structure as a radio astronomy transmitter. The installation is the work of Venzha Christiawan in collaboration with the Indonesian Space Science Society (ISSS).
The work features an antenna mounted on top of a 36-meter-high tower to capture extraterrestrial activities. The artwork represents the major theme of ARTJOG 2016, “Universal Influence”, which bears the message that art can absorb ideas from current world events or historical events, and provide global influence.
(Read also: Entering into the light)
The theme was chosen to convey a vision for the future and set new expectations for the development of art in Indonesia. In line with developments in the information and technology world, the arts are becoming borderless and getting inspiration from global issues.
The concept of “art without borders” demands that artists communicate their work in a universal language and present local ideas with packaging that can be received globally. The basis of these ideals is not only limited to technical knowledge, but also extends to communication skills as a way to voice the semiotics contained in artworks.
Hanafi's Wedhus Gembel painting, one of the exhibits at ARTJOG 2016, is an example of how an artwork can be packed into a universal social context. It tells the story of local myths surrounding a volcanic eruption, and highlights the message of preserving nature. Instead of just giving an impression of a horrific geological event, the painting speaks about how human beings should live in harmony with nature.
Synchronizing the idea of universal influences with contemporary art has become a concept that is not easy to achieve. This ideal is not a mandatory dogma, but a personal choice of each artist in presenting their artworks. However, the use of symbols that speak universally will affect the outlook and understanding of an audience about an artwork. While interpretation is entirely the audience’s right, the main idea of the concept is for artists to communicate their work properly. (asw)
Check out the ARTJOG 2016 photo gallery.
