Ministry of Creative Economy supports strengthening of visual arts ecosystem

Jakarta — The Ministry of Creative Economy is supporting the strengthening of the national visual arts ecosystem, including efforts to create greater opportunities for female visual artists.

According to a ministry statement confirmed on Thursday, Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar and representatives from the ARTPORA arts community discussed plans for organising a visual arts exhibition focused on works by female artists during a meeting held at the Ministry of Creative Economy office in Jakarta on Wednesday, 11 March.

ARTPORA, a collective platform for Jakarta-based artists working to strengthen the city’s identity through visual arts practice, has initiated the MARWAH Biennale to create a creative dialogue space for female visual artists.

“I am pleased with the spiritual aspect contained in the concept of the MARWAH Biennale. The meaning of ‘Marwah’ in Indonesian has a spirituality touch, an Indonesia touch, an authenticity touch and expression from these women,” said Irene.

According to the Indonesian Dictionary, the word “marwah” is a non-standard form of “muruah”, a noun meaning personal honour, self-respect, and good reputation.

The exhibition, themed “Reposition”, scheduled to run from 21 August to 4 September 2026 at Pos Bloc Jakarta, will feature works by approximately 50 female artists.

The Deputy Minister of Creative Economy noted that the exhibition combines spiritual values, cultural identity, and personal expression by the artists.

Artist Dolorosa Sinaga, serving as the exhibition curator, explained that MARWAH is not merely about women, but addresses broader human values.

“This exhibition is a statement to no longer be an annual exhibition, but to develop into the MARWAH Biennale, which is a biennale for works by women that may be one of the first in the world,” said the renowned sculptor.

“The theme ‘Reposition’ means repositioning ourselves, how women in Indonesia not only look to their personal experience, but also open horizons to social and political issues,” she explained.