Ill-advised presumptions

I am writing regarding Abdul Rachman's vilification of Amir Sidharta (Your Letters, Aug. 13, 1995).

Rachman's presumptions about Amir Sidharta and Teguh Ostenrik were not only ill-advised, but veered on the edge of a envious personal vendetta. Rachman speaks of Amir being "a snob" and wanting to "live along with Hollywood's megastars", but if he met Amir, he would realize that these aspirations figure more in his imagination than in Amir's.

Calling him a "rookie" is also misinformed, considering Amir's extensive resume in publishing.

As for The Jakarta Post having "nothing new to be discussed", then perhaps Rachman should contribute art reviews to the Post and show the readers how it should be done. Then he may clarify, at great length and in journalistic fashion, his conclusion that Teguh Ostenrik's paintings "were not sold or appreciated by anyone".

Until that time, all his presumptions are as empty as he accuses Teguh to be.

DINI S. DJALAL

Jakarta