Heri Dono shows modern monsters

JAKARTA (JP): Works of Heri Dono, one of the country's most famous avant garde painters and installation and performance artists, are on display in Singapore.

Mythical Monsters in Contemporary Society, Heri's first exhibition in the country, showcases 15 of his most powerful works from the past 10 years. It is at Gajah Gallery until March 10.

Heri's works, reflecting the current social and political situation in Indonesia, have drawn widespread attention of art critics and audiences. His paintings offer the Singapore audience a different perspective on the political violence and social injustice by depicting "mythical monsters" in contemporary situations.

Two of his strongest political pieces are Two Party Border (1998) and Dialog With A Gun (1998).

Heri's inspiration is taken from the traditional designs of wayang puppets, The features directly influence the forms of monsters and creatures in his paintings. His interest in the traditional Indonesian art of wayang puppets also led to installation works. He has created installations, environmental art and multimedia performances, which radically transform the wayang shadow puppet tradition.

Besides his paintings, there are three installation pieces called Flying Angels, each with a mechanical device that allows movement of the wings.

His exhibition has garnered much attention, with features in national newspapers like The Business Times and The Straits Times.

Heri has been active in international art arenas like New York, Tokyo, Vancouver, Brisbane, and European cities including Basel, Amsterdam, and Delft.