For the 2024 Powerful Indonesia: Bhinneka Tunggal Ika program in parity with Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day, award-winning hotel The Apurva Kempinski Bali publicly presents the Gallery of Art ‘Pancha Mahabhuta’ Exhibition from 17 August to October 2024 in their Pendopo Lobby.
An exclusive idiosyncratic voyage awaits, wherein renowned artists I Made Griyawan and Teja Astawa uniquely examine the five conceptual elements of life – water, fire, air, space and earth – through the lens of Indonesia’s legacy of ideas, customs, and social behaviour using established and novel approaches. In this case, ‘Pancha Mahabhuta’ means ‘five elements’ in Sanskrit, demonstrating the notion that they make up the bedrock of the universe and inform the way the harmonious balance of life is ascertained.
How ‘Pancha Mahabhuta’ is understood in Balinese philosophy is that the dynamic of Bhuana Agung (greater universe) and Bhuana Alit (individual existence) is highlighted, which represents in motifs the fundamental aspects of the world that symbolises life’s inseperable unity and equilibrium. Moreover, it deeply weaves with the underwater legacy of Indonesia (water), the hot intense fervor of Indonesians (fire), the traditional culture intertwining the country (air), the pervasive spirituality in Indonesian beliefs (space), and the distinctive sceneries (earth).
Hailing from Batuan, Bali, I Made Griyawan is an inspiring Balinese artist who revived the traditional Batuan technique. Influenced by his artist parents, Griyawan’s style blends traditional Batuan elements with innovative techniques. Aiming to reflect his identity and beliefs through his works and art, he often explores themes of personal and cultural significance. Known as the innovator among Batuan artists, Griyawan’s artworks have garnered international recognition, bringing Indonesia art to the global stages, including the ‘Awakening Soul’ exhibition in Tokyo, the Tokyo International Art Fair 2016, and the 32nd Chelsea International Fine Art Competition in the United States of America in 2017. In this exhibition, Griyawan’s mastery of the traditional Batuan style is evident in his depiction of the five elements, particularly in the previously unseen masterpiece of ‘Cycle of Life’.
Contrasting Griyawan’s traditional technique, Teja Astawa – a renowned modern visual artist residing in Sanur, Bali, and resident artist of Gallery Zen1, captures the five elements in vibrant and colourful pieces. A graduate of the Indonesian College of Fine Arts (STSI) Denpasar, Astawa’s creations are characterised by thematic series inspired by subjects from animal figures to the traditional puppet ‘wayang’ stories that shaped his childhood. Over the years, he has showcased his talent extensively through solo and group exhibitions in Indonesia, Korea, and Singapore. His creations are also featured in the museum collection of the Museum of World Cultures in Germany and the Jeju Museum in Korea.
“At The Apurva Kempinski Bali, we are delighted to celebrate the richness of Indonesian culture and provide our guests with unique and meaningful experiences,” stated Vincent Guironnet, General Manager of The Apurva Kempinski Bali. “This exhibition is a testament to that commitment, offering a space for contemplation, connection, and a deeper understanding of the elements that shape our world and ourselves.”
The Apurva Kempinski Bali
Jalan Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, Sawangan Nusa Dua
kempinski.com/bali
T: +62 361 209 2288
