Tan Siuli, an art administrator at the Singapore Art Museum and one of the organizers of the upcoming Singapore Biennale, recently revealed her favorite artistic destination in the region: Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This bustling city is special because rich history exists side by side with modern touches. Yogyakarta also has the distinction of being host to a thriving arts scene, and a handful of artists from this city are slated to display their works as a face of the biennale.
The home of an architecturally breathtaking sultan’s palace, monuments preserved through the ages, and charming sights and sounds, such as traditional pedicabs, this area is a hidden jewel that reveals itself to those willing to explore.
A puppet theater that put on a show at the Singapore Art Museum this year calls this region its home, delighting audiences with its boundless creativity. Many other contemporary artists set up shop here, drawing from the history and culture of the community to produce important works that resonate across the art communities of the world. Gallery spaces that art aficionados can browse have themselves played important roles in Indonesian history, and a yearly art fair is a popular destination for both artists and visitors alike. The city has also seen a boost in tourism following the release of a popular movie, fans visiting cafes, galleries, and other sites included in the film.
A bustling center for retail shopping with artsy stores offering high fashion takes on traditional Southeastern Asian garb, this area truly has something for everyone. History buffs will love the palace and monuments, and foodies can get their delicious fixes from a number of cultural offerings. Social media fans can snap pictures of dozens of colorful murals throughout the area, adding to the distinct flavor of the region. For those who love a good adventure, explore the underground tunnels that might have once been a mosque, or secret entrances into the palace. Travelers to the area should accept the fact that they are in for a treat in experiencing all of the offerings this special place embodies.
If you’re a diehard traveler, you might find that a good way to experience and understand a culture different from your own is through art. Visit art museums and galleries when you’re abroad, taking special care to keep your eyes open for public art like sculptures and murals. It might also help to enroll in an art class before you hop aboard a plane, train, or ship on your journey to better appreciate art. Visit SGArtClass.com to see an exhaustive listing of art classes you can take, including cityscape photography, mural painting, found art, and many more. Expert teachers will provide you with valuable background on your chosen subject and help lead you to complete projects you’re most interested in — even if you don’t have any artistic background or experience.
To read more about Tan Siuli’s picks for enjoying the thriving arts scene in Indonesia, go to http://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/travel/artsy-jogja.
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