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Artist reveals daring colors in exhibition
The Jakarta Post , Jakarta | Sun, 10/07/2007 8:25 AM
Alvin Darlanika Soedarjo, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta
Ni Nyoman Sani believes her Balinese heritage, though disguised in her contemporary oil paintings, is a source of great inspiration.
""A woman should be able to express herself with as much freedom as she wants,"" Nyoman said at the opening of her exhibition in Jakarta on Friday.
""I don't go out wearing traditional clothing such as kebaya or sanggul, but I keep tradition in my heart.""
In her paintings she depicts women going about their daily activities, wearing either gowns or smart urban attire.
Looking at her paintings is like looking at the sketch pad of a chic fashion designer. The colors she uses are bold yet somehow relaxing.
""I was inspired a lot by fashion,"" said Nyoman, who was born in Sanur in 1975.
One of her favorite paintings is a three-panel piece called Hurry Up! The painting depicts several sophisticated-looking women walking swiftly.
""Women are always on the move. They have children and houses to take care of as well as their careers. Through my art, I hope I can inspire them to work harder,"" said Nyoman, who is a graduate of Denpasar's STSI art academy.
She said artists should not be deterred by the large number of unauthentic Balinese paintings on the market.
""Authentic paintings from Bali and elsewhere are actually hard to recognize. The difference lies in the feel of them. However, the biggest challenge for me as a fine artist is to keep producing quality art.""
Ni Nyoman Sani has participated in numerous international exhibitions, including in Germany, Australia, Singapore and the Netherlands.
A selection of her art is on display at the O House Gallery on Widya Chandra street in Jakarta until Oct. 22. The gallery is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends.
