Paper art exhibition looks to bolster Indonesia-Bulgaria cultural diplomacy
The Jakarta Post
The Sofia tramway network in Sofia, Bulgaria on Sept. 2, 2016. (Shutterstock/Takashi Images)
The Indonesian Embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria has launched a contemporary paper art exhibition as part of ongoing cultural diplomacy with the Southeast European country.
The exhibition, titled "Eastern Rhythms", was officiated by Indonesian Ambassador to Bulgaria Sri Astari Rasjid. The event is part of the “Wonders of Indonesia” campaign aimed at bolstering bilateral relations between Indonesia and Bulgaria on tourism, trade and investment.
Sri contributed three works of photography, which serve as a feminist commentary on the binary nature of masculinity and femininity, to the exhibition.
Exhibition curator Bambang "Toko" Witjaksono said he wanted to showcase various pieces of art made by Indonesian artists that paint a unique portrait of Indonesia, ranging from traditional cultures and cuisines to sociopolitical realities in the country.
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He went on to say that the paper art exhibition highlighted various artistic media such as papier-mâché, watercolor and sculptures.
The exhibition showcases the works of 17 Indonesian artists including Butet Kertaradjasa, Beng Rahardian, Djoko Susilo, Surya Wirawan and Eunike Nugroho.
Nurul Sofia, the Indonesian Embassy’s first secretary for culture in Sofia, told Antara news agency that attendees at the launch event were enthralled by renowned Indonesian artist Butet Kertaradjasa’s reading of A. Mustafa Bisri’s classic poem titled "Kalau Kau Sibuk Kapan Kau Sempat" (When You’re Busy When Will You Have Time).
The exhibition, which will run until May 26, is also part of this year’s Sofia Paper Art Festival. (riz/kes)
