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Art: 'Maya Rupa' Rubaya - 'An exhibition of original art by I Wayan Santrayana'
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Easily accessed from Jl. Danau Tamblingan and set in the grounds of the Griya Santrian hotel in Sanur sits the airy wantilan-styled Santrian Gallery, an art-space that is currently home to the Maya Rupa exhibition created by acclaimed local artist, I Wayan Santrayana. Featuring 14 dramatic pieces, the exhibition runs until April 29 and entry is free.
The artist has long been intrigued by the Balinese concept of the buana agung (the macrocosm) and the buana alit (the microcosm) and the acknowledgment and belief that the universe is as one. Through this exhibition of abstract art, he explores that concept and specifically how it impacts upon the minds of men.
Santrayana's history of abstract work has often symbolized the struggle to achieve unity or balance and Maya Rupa is no different in that sense. Often gentle and harmonious, but occasionally in conflict, it can be seen to typify the battle man faces of good versus evil, a concept that is central to Balinese traditional belief.
Through the striking imagery, Santrayana attempts to explore how the human mind works and indeed, armed with that information, one can see his well-crafted concept develop. It is a confused yet balanced expression of the mind and how our behaviors are constructed.
Some of his other work has clearly been influenced by the sacred Balinese shadow puppets, the wayang kulit, others, like Maya Rupa, only give the viewer a hint at what is lurking in the fractured yet captivating art ' is it animal? Is it human? Or is it just portentous swirls in the porridge of life? But look closely and the hidden Balinese images buried within are a joy to discover.
Santrayana is one of a generation of Balinese artists who strongly believe in the higher order of things and by seeking what he considers to be the ultimate truth and putting his vision down on canvas, he hopes to help retain Bali's unique culture and ideologies.
The Griya Santrian has a long association with the creative and performing arts and hosts regular events and exhibitions featuring both unknown and critically acclaimed artists and performers; information on these can be found on its website www.santrian.com/griya.
