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19 young artists showcase interpretations on Basoeki Abdullah’s portrait paintings
The "Spirit Potret" exhibition displays artworks made by 19 young artists, inspired by the Indonesian realism maestro Basoeki Abdullah’s portrait works.
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'Spirit Potret" involves 19 Indonesian young artists with interpretations of Basoeki Abdullah's portrait works. (Shutterstock/File)
The Basoeki Abdullah Museum in Cilandak, South Jakarta, is hosting the “Spirit Potret” exhibition until Oct. 25.
Antara reported that the exhibition displays artworks made by 19 young artists, inspired by the Indonesian realism maestro Basoeki Abdullah’s portrait works.
The exhibition’s curator Agus Dermawan T said the artists tried to interpret Basoeki’s cosmology, which was showcased in the maestro’s portrait paintings.
Agus also mentioned that the exhibition features various styles of works, including parodies, caricatures and ballads, adding that some painters shared their cultural and social responses.
“The different interpretations show that Basoeki’s works can be considered alive and his pictorial works never cease to inspire [others],” he added.
Read also: Works of realism maestro Basoeki Abdullah on display at Jakarta museum
The participating artists reportedly came from different provinces, including Jakarta, West Java, Central Java, Yogyakarta and West Nusa Tenggara. Each shared their take on Basoeki’s works.
Bekasi-based painter Hudi Alfa created a “Madam Theresa” painting, based on Basoeki’s portrait of the nun and missionary Mother Teresa.
While Basoeki’s painting presents Mother Teresa from the side while holding a small child, Hudi painted the nun with her hands folded in prayer.
Other artists also created paintings of popular figures, such as former president Soekarno and Indian activist Mahatma Gandhi, based on Basoeki’s portraits.
During the opening event on Tuesday, museum head Maeva Salmah said Basoeki was among the important figures in Indonesian arts.
Salmah said Basoeki’s artwork, particularly portraits, have become sources of references and inspirations for young artists.
Born in 1915 in Surakarta, Central Java, Basoeki was recognized for his realism work. In 1948, the maestro won an art contest held for the coronation of queen Juliana of the Netherlands. He died in 1993. (jes/wng)
