Exhibition Opening
1 December 2023
19.00 WITA
Opening marks by Japanese Consulate General in Denpasar Katsumata Harumi
Exhibition dates and times
2 December 2023 – 19 January 2023
09.00-17.00 WITA
Monday – Friday
ABOUT
In Bali, like many regions of Indonesia, flying kites are a playful activity for people of all ages. Traditional Balinese kites like Bebean (fish-shaped kites), Janggan (dragon-shaped kites), or Pecukan (leaf-shaped kites), among many are some of the well-known kites that you can witness in highly awaited kite festivals every year in Bali. The philosophy and dedication behind crafting each kite make them part of the island’s traditions that are interesting to explore.
Having already learned about Indonesian kites since 2019, Japan contemporary artist Yoh Yasuda is interested in knowing more about kite culture in Bali. Her love for kites as one of her art explorations is inspired by her mother’s hometown Nagasaki, which is famous for its kite festival in Japan.
Earlier in July 2023, Yoh came to Bali to participate in Bali International Kite Festival, and met with I Kadek Dwi Armika, a renowned kite art maker and organizer of the kite festival, whose contemporary kites were created as a development of his wealth of knowledge of Balinese traditional kite-making and culture and had participated in numerous international kite festivals worldwide. Kadek Armika’s kite creations from natural materials captivated Yoh, pathing way as the beginning of their collaboration.
Yoh’s six weeks residency and research in Bali, and collaboration with Kadek Armika led to Wind Forest: Rimba Angin exhibition showcased at CushCush Gallery.
The exhibition explores kites in terms of materials and shapes. Using natural materials and playing with the idea of wind that evokes a connection with nature that many people have lost in the modern age. The work is also a response to environmental issues Bali is facing. The artists wish to share that just like flying a kite in the wind, everything needs to exist in balance, to continue its existence and flourish.
EXHIBITION CATALOGUE
Click here to access exhibition catalogue
PRESS RELEASE
Click here for the media release