Sketching a Nation—Urban Sketchers Bali at 13

Urban Sketchers Bali marks its 13th anniversary with an expansive exhibition that celebrates sketching as both an art form and a method of witnessing daily life. Featuring 111 artists, the show brings together 331 sketches, 90 sketchbooks, and 19 international sketchbook pedestals responding to the theme Sketsa Nusantara. These works portray Indonesia in all its contrasts—Jakarta’s relentless bustle, Ubud’s meditative quiet, the textures of street food stalls, the elegance of fine dining, and the coexistence of slums and elite spaces.

The exhibition intentionally presents sketches without frames, preserving the immediacy and authenticity that define the Urban Sketchers ethos. Each work is a direct response to a moment, a place, and a lived experience, forming a collective journal of Indonesia’s diverse urban and cultural landscape.

Urban Sketching has evolved from centuries of human mark-making, transforming the sketch from a preparatory tool into a complete artwork. This anniversary showcase highlights that evolution while honouring the spirit of the movement: “See the world one drawing at a time.”

Together, these artworks offer an intimate, multifaceted portrait of Indonesia—reminding viewers that every ordinary moment contains a story worth preserving.

Written by: Gede Austana

Photo Credit: Gede Austana

Kamasan Painting - The Ancient Scriptures Illustrated

Kamasan painting, originating from the village of Kamasan in Bali, is a distinctive and traditional art form deeply rooted in Balinese culture and Hindu-Javanese influences. This classical style is characterized by its narrative approach, often depicting scenes from ancient epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as Balinese folklore and mythology. Kamasan paintings are created using natural pigments derived from minerals and plants, giving them earthy tones and a timeless quality. The canvases, typically made from cloth or bark paper, are meticulously prepared to provide a smooth surface for the intricate detailing. Artists employ a unique method of outlining figures with fine black lines before filling them in with vibrant colors, creating a striking visual contrast. The composition of Kamasan paintings is highly structured, with a clear division of scenes into horizontal or vertical panels. Each character is depicted in a stylized manner, adhering to traditional iconog...

Balinese Art Styles: A Thousand Years of Creative Expression

The island of Bali, nestled in the Indonesian archipelago, is renowned not only for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture but also for its rich artistic heritage. Balinese art is a dynamic and ever-evolving tapestry that has captivated the world with its unique styles, expressive forms, and deep cultural significance. Over a thousand years of history, Balinese artists have developed an array of distinct art styles, each bearing the imprints of tradition, spirituality, and innovation. In this exploration of Balinese art styles, we delve into the evolution, characteristics, and significance of these remarkable creative traditions. Kamasan painting is a classical style originating from the village of Kamasan, known for its narrative depictions of Hindu epics and local folklore. These paintings are characterized by their use of natural pigments and intricate, stylized figures. Balinese sculpture is another prominent art form, with artisans expertly crafting intricate stone and wood c...

Indonesia Steps Forward at Art Central Hong Kong 2026

Indonesia’s presentation at Art Central Hong Kong 2026 did not rely on spectacle. It was measured, coordinated, and quietly strategic. Through the Ministry of Culture’s MTN Seni Budaya program, Rising Currents brought a group of Indonesian galleries into one of Asia’s most active art circuits with a level of structure that has often been missing in past international appearances. For those who follow Southeast Asia closely, the shift is noticeable. Indonesian art has long held depth. Strong studio practices, distinct visual languages, and a layered relationship to history and identity. What it has lacked is consistent access to the platforms where global conversations take shape. This is where Rising Currents begins to matter. Eight galleries participated, spanning Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta, and Bali. The inclusion of spaces such as Bali’s Puri Art Gallery signals something important. Bali is often read through its legacy. Tourism, tradition, craft. But within that, a contemporary ...

Art in Bali

Search This Blog