Exhibition speaks for RI arts history

JAKARTA (JP): Directorate General of Culture is holding a historical Indonesian fine arts exhibition at the Ministry of Education and Culture's art gallery, on Jl. Merdeka Timur 14, Central Jakarta, beginning yesterday.

The one-month historical event held to commemorate the 11th birthday of Ministry of Education and Culture's art gallery features 350 masterpieces. The selections come from the art gallery itself, the National Museum and the Directorate for the Arts, Ministry of Education and Culture.

"This is the first genuine effort to compile some of the best works in Indonesian art history," Edi Sedyawati, Director General of Cultural Affairs, said.

"It gives a clear view of how Indonesian art blossomed and the amazing eccentricities it has left behind."

Works of the late Raden Saleh, Hendra Gunawan, Basuki Abdullah and Popo Iskandar are exhibited. The collection comprises of paintings, drawings, sculptures, textiles, graphics, calligraphies and ceramics.

"Those exhibited range from those of the times of Mooi Indie to some recently done. They portray landscapes, social concerns, abstracts, free absurdities and calligraphic skill." (02)