A Tribute to Balinese Artistry: Three Generations of Batuan Artists at ARMA Museum
ARMA Museum, Image from Bvlgari Hotels.
In the heart of Ubud, Bali, a remarkable exhibition unfolds at the Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA), showcasing the rich tapestry of Batuan artistry across three generations. This exhibition, running from September 3rd to 22nd, is a testament to the enduring legacy of I Nyoman Ngendon and the vibrant artistic tradition he helped shape.
ARMA: A Cultural Haven
The ARMA museum, a passion project of art enthusiast Anak Agung Gde Rai, stands as a beacon of Balinese culture and artistry. Spread across multiple buildings, the museum complex is more than just a gallery—it's a living, breathing tribute to the island's creative spirit. As a returning visitor to both the museum and the surrounding resort, I've had the pleasure of witnessing how ARMA constantly reinvents itself, with regularly changing exhibitions that keep the space dynamic and engaging.
Me and my Mum at ARMA 2023 vs 2024.
During my visit, I had the unique opportunity to chat with Agung Rai himself. His daily presence at the museum and resort, interacting with visitors, speaks volumes about his dedication to sharing Balinese art and culture with the world. Agung Rai's vision has transformed ARMA into not just a museum, but a cultural resort where art, nature, and Balinese hospitality seamlessly intertwine.
The Exhibition: Prasasti Penciptaan Batuan
Curated by the esteemed Prof. Dr. I Wayan 'Kun' Adnyana, Anak Agung Gde Rai, and Warih Wisatsana, the current exhibition, "Prasasti Penciptaan Batuan," is a monumental tribute to the Batuan art movement. At its core, the exhibition honors I Nyoman Ngendon (c. 1913-1947), a pivotal figure in Balinese art history.
I Nyoman Ngendon ( 1937 ), Image from The Jakarta Post.
Ngendon's life and work embody the intersection of art and political activism. His journey took him from the villages of Bali to Yogyakarta, where he became acquainted with revolutionary artists of the time. Inspired by the struggle for independence, Ngendon returned to Bali to create anti-colonial posters, a decision that ultimately led to his capture and execution by Dutch forces in 1947.
The exhibition doesn't just celebrate Ngendon's artistic prowess but also his courage and commitment to Indonesia's independence movement. His works, prized by international collectors and anthropologists like Margaret Mead and Gregory Bateson, now grace the walls of prestigious institutions worldwide, including the Rijksmuseum in the Netherlands.
A Cross-Generational Artistic Lineage
"Prasasti Penciptaan Batuan" goes beyond Ngendon's individual contributions, presenting a comprehensive view of Batuan's artistic evolution. The exhibition features works from 16 other deceased Batuan painters, including luminaries like Ida Bagus Made Togog and Ida Bagus Made Widja. This curatorial decision underscores the deep artistic roots that have nourished Batuan's cultural landscape for generations.
Photographs of the ARMA Museum, Rhiannon Piper.
What makes this exhibition truly special is its representation of three generations of Batuan artists. From the pioneering works of Ngendon and his contemporaries to the innovations of current master artists like I Made Budi and Gde Widyatara, the exhibition traces the evolution of Batuan style while highlighting its core aesthetics and techniques.
The Artistry of Batuan Painting
One of the exhibition's highlights is its focus on the intricate techniques that define Batuan painting. The 'tebek nurut' method, a hallmark of the style, involves applying multiple layers of gradated black ink to create depth and volume. This technique, distinct from the Ubud style's use of diluted black ink as a base, results in the highly detailed, visually striking works that Batuan is renowned for.
Visitors to the exhibition are treated to insights into the various stages of creating a Batuan painting, from the initial sketching (nyeket or ngorten) to the final touches that bring depth and life to the canvas (manyunin). This technical breakdown offers a deeper appreciation of the skill and patience required in Batuan artistry.
During my visit to ARMA, I had the opportunity to participate in one of their painting workshops, gaining firsthand experience in Batuan techniques. This hands-on approach to art appreciation adds another dimension to the exhibition experience, allowing visitors to connect more deeply with the artistic process. (Stay tuned for next week's update on how my experience went!)
Preserving Tradition, Embracing Innovation
What's particularly fascinating about the Batuan artistic tradition is its method of knowledge transfer. Senior artists have long passed down their skills and techniques to younger generations, often within families or village communities. This exhibition beautifully illustrates how this process has preserved traditional techniques while allowing for stylistic and thematic innovations.
The works of younger artists featured in the exhibition are a testament to this balance of tradition and innovation. These emerging talents demonstrate remarkable skill in traditional techniques while fearlessly incorporating contemporary themes and influences from popular culture. Their art reflects a unique fusion of everyday experiences, imagination, and cultural heritage, pointing to a bright future for Batuan artistry.
An Invitation to Experience Balinese Artistry
For those fortunate enough to be in Bali between September 3rd and 22nd, the "Prasasti Penciptaan Batuan" exhibition at ARMA is an unmissable opportunity. It's not just an art show; it's a journey through time, technique, and Balinese cultural expression. The exhibition offers a rare chance to see works by I Nyoman Ngendon alongside those of his contemporaries and artistic descendants, providing a comprehensive view of Batuan's artistic legacy.
Moreover, a visit to ARMA is an experience that goes beyond the exhibition halls. The museum's lush gardens, traditional architecture, and the palpable passion of its founder, Agung Rai, create an immersive cultural experience that captures the essence of Bali's artistic spirit.
Whether you're an art enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply curious about Balinese creativity, this exhibition promises to be an enlightening and inspiring journey through one of Indonesia's most vibrant artistic traditions. Don't miss this chance to witness the living legacy of Batuan artistry at ARMA.
