Srisasanti Gallery is proud to present lupakan Wianta (English: forget Wianta), a retrospective solo exhibition by I Made Wianta (1949 – 2020). This exhibition displays various paintings and drawings by I Made Wianta, as well as a number of books, photos and performance art videos as a form of "staging the archive". This exhibition not only presents archival art but also explores the art in the work of an artist who prioritizes beauty.
The curator and writer of this exhibition, Wahyudin, has examined hundreds of visual documents in the form of newspaper clippings, magazines, books, catalogues, photos, videos and drawings of works about I Made Wianta in his two home studios in Denpasar, Bali. Wahyudin also interviewed several curators, writers, artists and collectors in Ubud and Denpasar.
This exhibition highlights the work and creativity of I Made Wianta which is based on the artist's thoughts and feelings, but has not yet been fully appreciated and received by art viewers. This unfinished-ness allows the
viewer to experience intellectual and emotional adventures.
The title of the exhibition, lupakan Wianta, was inspired by the title of philosopher Jean Baudrillard's book, Forget Foucault (1977). This title contradictorily invites the public to remember and realize the other side of I Made Wianta's aesthetic development and artistic achievements.
This exhibition is an attempt to emphasize "forgetting" as a perfect longing for I Made Wianta, that he deserves to be recorded and have a place in the world of Indonesian art. The history of Indonesian fine arts often erases the names and works of Indonesian artists from records, memories or memorabilia after they passed away.
"I decided to showcase Made Wianta's works at the Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI), at Galeri R. J. Katamsi, accompanied by the publication of the book 'lupakan Wianta' written by Wahyudin, so that this art event can become an educational event for young generations, especially fine arts students and also emerging artists," said E. St. Eddy Prakoso, Founder of Srisasanti.
The book "lupakan Wianta" is also a form of synergy between the gallery and PT Bank UOB Indonesia, as institutions committed to continuing to contribute positively to the growth of the Indonesian fine arts ecosystem.
Maya Rizano, Head of Strategic Communications and Brand, UOB Indonesia, stated, "The exhibition and book launch received support from UOB Indonesia with the hope that I Made Wianta's works and journey will provide inspiration and can be enjoyed by all levels of society, especially the nation's next generation "This is in line with UOB's belief that fine arts can unite, enrich lives and strengthen bonds between communities."
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