Didit Foundation Denies Political Co-optation Allegations at Artjog
The involvement of Didit Hediprasetyo, son of President Prabowo Subianto, in funding the Artjog art exhibition has sparked protests from various sectors. Artists criticising Artjog have reportedly experienced security interventions and digital attacks. Beyond the protests, the involvement of the Didit Hediprasetyo Foundation has resulted in several partners and artist collectives cancelling their collaborations.
Some critics have labelled the foundation’s involvement as ‘art washing’—the practice of manipulating public image through the medium of art. Others have accused the funding of being part of a political co-optation of the arts. The sponsor’s name, listed as a strategic partner, had previously appeared on posters widely circulated on social media.
Initially, the Artjog committee had scheduled Didit to open the event. However, the posters were removed one day before the opening due to intense public protest. Didit did not attend the opening at the Jogja National Museum on Friday, 19 June 2026.
Artjog Director Heri Pemad acknowledged that the Didit Foundation provided financial support, noting that the foundation was not the sole supporter of Artjog. Boedi Basoeki, the communications team for the Didit Hediprasetyo Foundation, responded to interview requests from Tempo via written statements on Tuesday, 23 June 2026, after consulting with Didit.
Regarding the origins of the collaboration, the foundation stated they were recently approached by the organisers to support Artjog 2026. The foundation’s involvement was limited to a sponsorship scheme involving the purchase of Artjog 2026 tickets, in accordance with the cooperation model offered by the organisers. The purpose of this support was to ensure that creative spaces like Artjog can continue to develop and reach a wider audience.
Addressing rumours regarding share ownership, the foundation clarified that there is no shareholding in the organising company, PT Artjog Matra Nusantara. The support is strictly within a sponsorship framework and does not involve ownership or decision-making power regarding the management of Artjog.
As part of their commitment to arts and culture, the foundation plans to distribute the purchased tickets to their partners and networks so that the artists’ works can be enjoyed by a broader public. Regarding the specific value of the support, the foundation respects the existing agreements and mechanisms of the partnership.
The foundation stated there were no special requirements imposed on the Artjog team. Their intention is to support the development of arts and culture in Yogyakarta by expanding the Artjog audience through ticket marketing.
Responding to the public debate triggered by the sponsorship, the foundation expressed respect for the diverse views of artists and the public, noting that criticism is a vital part of a healthy art ecosystem. They are listening to feedback openly and hope for a healthy and proportional discussion.
In response to the removal of the Didit and DHF logo from promotional materials, the foundation stated that as a mark of respect for the various views emerging, they decided to withdraw the logo from Artjog’s publication materials without altering their commitment to the support.
Addressing allegations of ‘art washing’, the foundation emphasised that its involvement stems from a focus on developing culture, education, and the creative industry. The support is intended to assist the festival’s implementation and support the sustainability of the art ecosystem while respecting creative freedom.
Finally, regarding allegations of political co-optation, the foundation clarified that the partnership was formed at the request of the Artjog organisers, who saw a shared vision for the arts and culture ecosystem. Their role is limited to financial support and does not touch the curatorial realm; the selection of artists, exhibition narratives, and final decisions on artwork display remain entirely under the authority of the curatorial team. The foundation maintains that its support is intended to bolster art spaces without intervening in the artistic direction, curatorial process, or the independence of Artjeg.