Galeri Nasional unites RI and Chinese sculptors

The Jakarta Post ,  Jakarta   |  Sun, 12/10/2006 1:32 PM  |  Life

Carla Bianpoen, Contributor, Jakarta

As we look at the unique exhibition of sculptures at Galeri Nasional, it may come to mind how barely a decade ago such an exhibition would have been only a dream. Apparently, Edwin Gallery, the first to showcase contemporary sculptures as a regular feature in the gallery's program, is now making the dream come true.

The contemporary works of two Chinese and two Indonesian sculptors have made their presence felt through sculptures that reveal their professional skills, and the world as they perceive it.

Intriguing due to their differences in form and style, the works of Chinese artists Qu Guangci and Xian Jing give a glimpse of the changing landscape of Chinese life, with Qu Guangci tending to blend memories with the realities of the present and Xian Jing expressing her inner self in the images of contemporary women's lives. Both studied at the Sculpture Department of the Central Academy of Fine Art in Beijing and have exhibited extensively in China and abroad. Their works use paint over fiberglass, as well as bronze.

The works of Indonesian sculptor Dolorosa Sinaga are well known in the art circuit and beyond, and the works in this exhibition still subscribe to her usual classical style with expressions found, not in the facial features, but in the drapery. A few new works reveal the social and political impact of the mudflow in East Java. Monumen Lumpur Sidoarjo and Lu-Si, for instance, show mud-covered figures, one standing (28x25x83 cm), and another sitting 85x80x72 in fiberglass, while The Wall, 55x36x82cm shows the figure of a woman covered from head to toe, probably referring to the much discussed issue of the veil.

Yani Mariani Sastranegara is reaching new heights with sculptures that bring one to a state of pure exaltation.

Imbued with an indomitable energy, most of her works here are a breath of fresh air. Using a variety of materials, from copper, polyresin, combstone and pewter to brass and fiberglass, the 16 sculptures -- all made within a period of eight months, also show a variety of moods, some contemplative and philosophically inspired, others revealing her creative imagery fueled by profound spirituality.

Soliloquy
An exhibition of 2 Chinese and 2 Indonesian sculptors

Organized by Edwin Gallery
At Galeri Nasional
Until 15 December 2006

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