Exhibit explores developments in esthetics
Chisato Hara, The Jakarta Post, Bandung
Traveling along the new stretch of toll road connecting the capital to its sister city, Bandung, a panorama of rolling hills, cassava plantations and small kampong nestled in green valleys unfolded before the eyes, set against muted peaks beyond the haze -- an apt path to take for a visit to Badung di Bandung, an exhibition of contemporary artist group 12 pas being held at The Peak Resort Dining until Nov. 28.
While road construction is nothing to marvel over in itself, this particular execution of civil engineering indicates a different development: the inclusion of esthetic sensitivity in its design.
Aesthetic value in composition is also the binding element among the various pieces featured in Badung di Bandung, or Naughty in Bandung, which range from the more traditional ink, watercolor, acrylic and oil paints, to graphic arts and digital painting.
"I wanted to introduce the lesser-known but highly talented artists who are making a mark on Indonesia's arts scene outside the mainstream," said The Peak chairman Eddy Sugiri, who trained in architectural design at a German institute.
Standing about 1,240 meters above sea-level atop a hill, The Peak itself, designed by Eddy, is a composition in aesthetics.
Combining organic and inorganic materials against the natural landscape of Parongpong, just outside the city, the venue complements the work of 12 pas, which has a mission to contribute to the country's arts development and to raise public appreciation for the arts.
The 12 members of the group all come from artistic professions, such as architecture, graphic design, product design and animation, and their combined experiences make for an exhibit that offers both introspection and social commentary, classical and contemporary technique, esthetic elements of both fine and commercial arts, as well as themes that range from the natural to the physical, and from the abstract to the metaphysical.
Badung di Bandung, with its play on words and tongue-in-cheek self-representation, is a panoramic view on not only the potential, but also of the explosive development in esthetic composition and interpretation among "indie" contemporary artists.
The Peak Resort Dining, Jl. Desa Karyawangi Ciwaruga KM 6,8 No. 388, Parongpong, Bandung. Tel (022) 2700759, 2785429; Fax (022) 2785429. www.thepeakresortdining.com For more information, contact Fanny at The Peak, at (022) 70815500 or 08156068000.