Indonesian artists' two poles collide at National Gallery exhibition
The Jakarta Post
Masdibyo's paintings titled 'Koruptor Dibuang ke Laut Diadili, Ikan Laut Dalam' on display as part of the 'Dua Kutub' exhibition at the National Gallery in Central Jakarta. (instagram.com/tony_watonseni/File)
Artworks by two prominent Indonesian artists from different backgrounds, Masdibyo and Gigih Wiyono, are currently being displayed at the National Gallery in Central Jakarta
Visitors can visit the exhibition, titled Dua Kutub (Two Poles), at the gallery's A Building until Jan. 21.
Growing up in Tuban, East Java, has made Masdibyo close with the culture of fishermen. Hence, he represents the local wisdom of the northern side of Java, or the North Pole, in the exhibition through 30 social tradition-influenced paintings he created between 2007 and 2017.
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Meanwhile, Gigih Wiyono was born in Sukoharjo regency, Central Jakarta, to a family of farmers. Thus he highlights the southern side of Java, or the South Pole, through his 23 paintings and nine sculptures that revolve around motherhood, leaves and life symbols, made between 2013 and 2017.
“Dua Kutub is presented with the power of love as the message,” Gigih told kompas.com. “We display the spirit that brings with it a peaceful energy and affection. [It is about the relationship between] humans and other fellow humans, humans and nature, and humans and God.”
Curated by M. Dwi Marianto, the exhibition is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (wir/kes)
