Strong cultural ties between Bali and India have existed for centuries. This is explored in Art[i]Factual, an exhibition by six Balinese artists that examines the richness and similarities of the two cultures.

In collaboration with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), the exhibition is being held at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts in New Delhi from March 13 to 20.

The Balinese artists are Djaja Tjandra Kirana, Wayan Redika, Made Wiradana, Made Duatmika, I Ketut Suwidiarta and IGM Wisatawan.

Wayan Redika said the theme centered on a fusion of art, artifacts and facts. 

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"It's an attempt to explore the greatness of artwork and culture in the past as footprints with a huge impact on the creation process of present artwork," he said.

He also said that the ICCR, through its representative in Bali, gave Balinese artists the chance to explore the heritage of the Ramayana and Mahabharata epics.

As 80 percent of the Indian population identifies as Hindu, the country has become a religious reference for Balinese Hinduism, which is practiced by the majority of Balinese locals. The rich cultural heritage of both places acted as inspiration for the exhibition. "Then, how does that inspiration turn into a visual idea? That's the goal of this Art[i]Factual exhibition," Redika said. 

The artist said that the exhibition could also be seen as a way for Indian artists and art enthusiasts to share ideas. (wng)