RI art initiative takes prominence in Washington

RI art initiative takes prominence in Washington

Carla Bianpoen, Contributor, Washington

Amid confused perceptions in the arts and manipulated market
orientations, the concepts of CP Foundation for a more
comprehensive world art order is taking shape. This is evident in
the acceptance of art exhibitions the group has organized since
February 2002 in CP Artspace gallery in Washington DC, but is
particularly highlighted in reactions to the works of Indonesian
artist Chusin Setiadikara, now on show until July 30.

There has been much appreciation for the artist's depth of
thought in combination with an intense compassion for the human
condition, as well as the unusual aesthetic and easy to grasp
meaning of Chusin Setiadikara's artistic reflections.

Even before the exhibition opened on June 7, people came to
inquire about his work as they had seen the paintings being put
in place through the glass doors. Some came back three times,
thanking the organizers again and again for bringing such art
works to Washington.

Chusin Setiadikara, whose revamp of conventional Realism had
initially evoked condescending critique among dominating abstract
art followers, seems to be taking root in the international
scene. That should not be too surprising. The stirring images of
his charcoal on oil paint, the way he makes us see how Reality is
made of many smaller realities in life, his poetic and almost
ethereal nudes, and the blend of realistic portrayal with the
abstract, as well as the expressive articulation of emotion in
the dynamics of lines along his figures' necks, hands and
fingers, all testify to his amazing skills and great talent. A
truly gifted artist, commented a corporate representative who got
interested in supporting CP Foundation in its pursuits.

CP Art Foundation came into existence just a year ago. "We
wish to contribute to an art scene that recognizes plural
realities rather than just one dominating trend," says the
foundation's chairman, Tjianan Djie, who said he had been
profoundly sad to see Indonesia's fame tumble in the tumultuous
years toward the end of the last millennium.

The world must be made aware that there is more than meets the
eye. Meeting Jim Supangkat was a meeting of mind and soul.

Supangkat is an internationally well-known art critic and
curator, who for the past decade has been engaged in bringing
Indonesian artists to international exhibitions and who was
awarded the international Prince Claus Award from the Netherlands
in recognition of his success in promoting Third World culture to
the international community.

There is a lot of creative and good quality art that remains
hidden or marginalized, says Supangkat, who is the CP's art
curator.

"It is such art that we will strive to bring to the
international platform," he contends. It will, however, need a
lot of hard work, both on the part of the foundation and the
selected artists. According to Supangkat, the foundation's
endeavors are not restricted to Indonesia alone, but includes
other Asian countries. Publishing extensive documentation on art
realities in these countries is also in the offing.

CP Foundation organizes its exhibitions in the CP Artspace
gallery, which is located in the prestigious building of 1350 Eye
Street amid the CBD of Franklin Square in Washington D.C. The
transparent glass front of the gallery provides the works on
display unique exposure to passersby, and has proved an effective
way of luring the public into closer attention.

Seeking corporate partners and cooperation with institutions,
CP Foundation has so far secured the support of a group of
Indonesian companies, the Swiss-based UBS financial institution,
and the Friends of the Foundation consisting of individuals from
Indonesia and the international community.

Meanwhile, the ongoing exhibition at CP Artspace has attracted
the attention of companies operating in Washington.

"We received a letter from one company assuring us of its full
support," reveals Tjianan a day after the opening of the Chusin
exhibit.

Will CP Foundation and its selected artists have an impact on
the international art scene? Time will tell. For now, the
positive reactions to Chusin Setiadikara's works are encouraging.

Exhibitions in 2002 include the works of photographer Oscar
Matuloh, sculptures by Balinese artist Nyoman Nuarta, while the
Chinese avant garde artist Yue Min Jun is scheduled for early
2003.