Unrest at ARTJOG: Artist Struck by Security During Theatrical Protest, Organisers Respond

The festive atmosphere of the ARTJOG 2026 event was marred by an altercation. An artist named Ayik received unpleasant treatment from event security on Friday (19/6/2026). Ayik was performing his artwork to voice opposition to the involvement of Didit Hediprasetyo as a sponsor of this year’s ARTJOG. A video showing an artist being struck by security officers suddenly went viral on social media, shocking the arts community. During his action, he wore black clothing with a cloth covering his face and staged a theatrical performance beneath the ARTJOG logo, right in front of the entrance to the annual event. Security officers began to intervene after red paint was thrown, hitting a signboard. The artist was then taken by security personnel towards the security post and interrogated. Responding to the incident, ARTJOG Programme Director Gading Paksi conveyed an apology to Ayik for what had occurred. He stated that he had spoken directly with Ayik, the victim of the assault that evening. ‘I spoke earlier with Ayik, who was the victim of the assault, and I apologised because this had to happen,’ Gading Paksi said when confirmed on Friday (19/6/2026). He requested time to conduct an investigation to uncover the actual chronology of events by coordinating with his team and the security officers. ‘Actually, I really need time to investigate the true chronology. I need time to speak with our entire team and also with the security team regarding the exact sequence of events,’ Paksi explained. According to him, ARTJOG has always been committed to providing space for artists to express themselves and to accepting criticism from various parties. ‘Because we emphasise to the entire team that we open the widest possible space for expression, just as Ayik did earlier. So we absolutely do not want and will not hinder such intentions,’ he clarified. He added that the act of striking should not have been part of the event’s rules. Meanwhile, it is understood that Ayik was not an artist or performer participating in ARTJOG this year. He carried out a spontaneous action to voice his rejection of the ARTJOG organisers over the controversy surrounding Didit Hediprasetyo’s involvement as a sponsor.