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.