Correct information

Correct information

Consumers have the right to correct and non-manipulative information from companies or institutions which advertise their products or services through the mass media. But what if the information is about artists and their products?

The Jakarta Post printed a picture on the opening of Gallery Teguh and a story on painter Made Wianta on May 21. I believe the Post should have included the following information:

1. Although Teguh Ostenrik spent 16 years living and studying in Germany and Holland, he cannot write in or speak Dutch, German or English well. This fact was once mentioned by a director of a cultural center in Europe.

2. So far there have been no international artists -- either Picasso, Dali or Pollock -- who have sold the works of their contemporaries. If an artist sells the works of his colleagues, that means he has failed as an artist and cannot live on his income.

3. I have to admit that as an artist, Made Wianta possesses a unique visual concept. However, it should be known that he always works with tukang (craftsmen) who do the finishing touches to his paintings.

4. Jean Couteau is a friend and mentor of Made Wianta. I am very disappointed with the story he wrote which appeared in the Post. I don't think the story was worth publishing.

In my opinion, a good painter does not need promotion through such a subjective article. Basically, every human being or collector is able to see and judge an artwork, without being manipulated by the mass media.

The Post is an independent publication and is not the property of certain artists or a subjective art observer.

HANIFAH

South Jakarta