Constructive criticism

I would like to thank Sri Handayani for her letter published on Monday, Oct. 31, 1994. Despite having to face bitter criticism, I wish that more readers would voice their opinion about articles published in The Jakarta Post.

With regard to Firman's paintings, the title of the article itself indicates that, in fact, it is urban glamor that is his primary subject matter. Perhaps urban glamor has become so closely associated with snobbery that the reader considers the painter's works as reflecting "sheer snobbism."

However, as stated in the article, I truly believe that he paints without pretense; he merely wishes to portray the lifestyle with which he is familiar. If Firman starts painting themes of social change, then we can wonder about pretensions.

Even though I agree that there are many unknown young artists who are in need of support, I do not think that a reason for The Post to exclude famous talents. I think that Firman's works presented in the exhibit offer a viewpoint worthy of mention. Should the artist be disregarded just because he paints images of urban glamor?

Although it would be inaccurate and unfair to say that The Post has never published articles on young artists, I agree that there should be more written about them. I am sure that The Post would welcome articles of promising unknown artists just as receptively. I concede to my limitations in terms of looking for aspiring new talents or other unknown artists. Hence, if Sri Handayani or other readers know of promising unknowns who are worthy of note, I am sure that art writers contributing to The Post, including myself, would consider writing about them.

With regard to Sri Handayani's opinion about my lack of "perception of art," I have been told that my articles have been utilized by Art and Architecture faculties of various universities in their instruction. At least some people appreciate my "perception of art." Of course, there is much room for improvement in my writing, and comments and criticism from readers are among the best agents of development. However, I wish the reader was more specific in her criticism, so that it was constructive criticism.

AMIR SIDHARTA

Jakarta