Photo: The ISI Denpasar delegation performs a Balinese dance in Astana, Kazakhstan (August 17).
The Indonesian Bali Art Exhibition was held at the National Choreography Academy of Kazakhstan (KNAC), the first higher education institution in Central Asia offering a comprehensive program in choreography, from primary school through postgraduate programs (Master’s and Doctorate). The exhibition took place on August 19, 2024, organized by the Indonesian Embassy in Astana in collaboration with ISI Denpasar and the National Choreography Academy of Kazakhstan. This event commemorated 31 years of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Kazakhstan, showcasing works by Indonesian artists and photographers.
The exhibition featured around 20 artworks addressing significant themes such as humanism, the interaction between humans and nature, tolerance, femininity, and the environment. Visitors could also enjoy dance performances from ISI Denpasar and the National Choreography Academy of Kazakhstan, highlighting diverse art forms, including traditional Balinese dance.
The National Choreography Academy of Kazakhstan is actively expanding its international cooperation and takes pride in its role in creating bridges between the arts and cultures of various countries. This exhibition is an important step in strengthening cultural ties between Kazakhstan and Indonesia, promoting mutual understanding and respect between nations, enriching cultural heritage, and expanding global perceptions.
The Indonesian Ambassador to Kazakhstan and Tajikistan, Dr. M. Fadjroel Rachman, stated that this exhibition is part of strengthening Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy in Kazakhstan. “This exhibition aims to introduce Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage to the people of Kazakhstan. We are grateful for the strategic collaboration with ISI Denpasar and the National Choreography Academy of Kazakhstan. We hope that the friendship between Indonesia and Kazakhstan continues to advance in all fields,” said the former Presidential Spokesperson of President Jokowi.
The Rector of ISI Denpasar, Prof. I Wayan Adnyana, mentioned that the event is significant as a symbol of the successful MoU signing between ISI Denpasar and KNAC. “This art exhibition is part of our visit to Kazakhstan, which includes the ‘Bali Night Festival’ performance at the Indonesian Embassy in Astana and the art exhibition at the National Choreography Academy of Kazakhstan. We presented 20 selected works from our faculty, both through traditional manual painting techniques and digital printing. The exhibition received positive responses from the attendees, including professors from the National Choreography Academy of Kazakhstan regarding how we express, choreograph, and configure visual elements. This exhibition also marks the education collaboration MoU between ISI Denpasar and the National Choreography Academy of Kazakhstan,” said Prof. Wayan.
The Vice Rector of the National Choreography Academy of Kazakhstan, Yessentemirova Aigul Maratovna, expressed gratitude for the successful collaboration that made this event possible. “Today, we have a unique opportunity to see Indonesia’s rich heritage, learn more about its history, traditions, and modernity through the prism of works by talented artists. On behalf of our entire Academy, I want to extend our deepest thanks to the Indonesian Embassy in Astana and ISI Denpasar for this opportunity to learn more about Indonesian art. We hope that today marks a part of strengthening the friendship between our two countries,” said Yessentemirova.
Photo: The Rector of ISI Denpasar, Prof. Dr. I Wayan Adnyana, and the President of OPUA, Prof. Izumi Hatano, signed the MoU at the Shuri-Tonokura Campus, Naha City, Okinawa, Japan, on Friday (November 1).
The Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI) Denpasar has strengthened its international role through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts (OPUA), Japan. The MoU was signed by the Rector of ISI Denpasar, Prof. Dr. I Wayan Adnyana, and the President of OPUA, Prof. Izumi Hatano, at the Shuri-Tonokura Campus, Naha City, Okinawa, Japan, on Friday (November 1).
Photo: The Rector of ISI Denpasar, Prof. Dr. I Wayan Adnyana, and the President of OPUA, Prof. Izumi Hatano, signed the MoU at the Shuri-Tonokura Campus, Naha City, Okinawa, Japan, on Friday (November 1).
The Rector of ISI Denpasar, Prof. Dr. I Wayan Adnyana, expressed that this collaboration is a significant milestone in developing the artistic and cultural potential of both institutions. “This cooperation is a commitment from ISI Denpasar to expand its network and contribute internationally. We hope that through exchange programs and collaborations, students and faculty can enrich their creative perspectives and develop their expertise in a global arts context,” said this Professor of Art History.
Photo: The signing of the MoA between the Faculty of Performing Arts of ISI Denpasar and the Faculty of Music of OPUA at the Shuri-Tonokura Campus, Naha City, Okinawa, Japan, on Friday (November 1).
Meanwhile, Prof. Izumi Hatano welcomed the collaboration as a strategic step in strengthening the intercultural relations between Japan and Indonesia. He hopes that through this cooperation, students from both countries can learn from each other, get to know, and appreciate each other’s rich cultures. The collaboration will provide a deep and meaningful experience for both faculty members and students from the two art universities.
Photo: The Rector of ISI Denpasar, Prof. Dr. I Wayan Adnyana, along with the ISI Denpasar delegation and the leadership team of OPUA at the Shuri-Tonokura Campus, Naha City, Okinawa, Japan, on Friday (November 1).
The collaboration between ISI Denpasar and OPUA covers academic, arts, and cultural fields, as well as opens opportunities for student exchange programs between the two institutions. In addition to the signing of the MoU, a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was also signed between the Faculty of Performing Arts of ISI Denpasar and the Faculty of Music of OPUA, as well as between the Faculty of Fine Arts and Design of ISI Denpasar and the Faculty of Arts and Crafts of OPUA.
Photo: The Rector of ISI Denpasar, Prof. Dr. I Wayan Adnyana, presents a souvenir to the President of OPUA, Prof. Izumi Hatano, at the Shuri-Tonokura Campus, Naha City, Okinawa, Japan, on Friday (November 1).
This signing is part of the Bali Nata Bhuwana (BNB) III Program for 2024, which took place in Okinawa and Kunitachi, Japan, from October 31 to November 6, 2024. This program is a strategic step by ISI Denpasar to support the Merdeka Belajar-Kampus Merdeka policy launched by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia.
Overall, BNB III 2024 brought together the creative community of ISI Denpasar, including students, educators, and faculty members, with various cultural communities and prestigious art institutions both nationally and globally. This program aims to broaden students’ horizons and skills while strengthening intercultural relations in the Asia-Pacific region. (ISIDps/PR)
Photo: Rektor of ISI Denpasar Prof. Dr. I Wayan ‘Kun’ Adnyana, S.Sn., M.Sn together with the leadership of OPUA and the ISI Denpasar delegation, Sunday (3/11).
The Indonesian Arts Institute (ISI) Denpasar has once again made an international achievement through a series of Bali Nata Bhuwana III 2024 activities which were held in Okinawa and Kunitachi, Japan. One of the peak events, the Balinese Arts Performance entitled “Karma Manawa Kirtya”, was presented on Sunday (3/11) at the 2024 Geidai Festival, in collaboration with lecturers and students of the Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts (OPUA).
Photo: Balinese Art Parade at the Geidai Festival at OPUA, Sunday (3/11).
The work of 20 ISI Denpasar delegates consisting of teachers, education staff and students managed to amaze the audience with various typical Balinese dances, including the Babarisan Sudamala-Deeng Nusantara Dance, Kreasi Dance and Jeriring Janger Dance. Cross-cultural collaboration was increasingly felt when OPUA students played Balinese Gamelan, accompanying the opening of the performance with enchanting magical music.
Photo: Collaboration between ISI Denpasar and OPUA at the Geidai Festival, Sunday (3/11). Rektor of ISI Denpasar, Prof.
Dr. I Wayan ‘Kun’ Adnyana, S.Sn., M.Sn., expressed his high appreciation for this collaboration. “Through Bali Nata Bhuwana III, we are not only introducing Balinese art and culture at the global level, but also strengthening academic and cultural networks between countries. “The collaboration with OPUA is proof that art can be a bridge that connects differences into harmony,” said the former Head of the Bali Province Culture Service
Photo: Dean of the ISI Denpasar Performing Arts Faculty, Dr. I Ketut Garwa, S.Sn., M.Sn was a resource person at the Cak Workshop at OPUA, Japan, Saturday (2/11).
The day before the performance, ISI Denpasar also held a Balinese Cak and Gamelan Workshop which was attended enthusiastically by dozens of OPUA students. This activity provides participants with direct experience to explore Balinese performing arts while broadening their cultural insight
Photo: ISI Denpasar delegation with OPUA students and lecturers, Japan, Sunday (2/11)
According to Prof. Kun Adnyana, this activity reflects ISI Denpasar’s vision as a center of excellence for arts and culture that contributes to world cultural diplomacy. “With a collaborative approach like this, we hope to strengthen Bali’s position as the axis of world art, as well as foster friendship through art,” said Prof. Kun Adnyana. (ISIDps/PR)
The Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI) Denpasar held the International Community Service Program “Bali Citta Bhuwana” (PKMI-BCB) and the Indonesian Cultural Night 2024 event at the Indonesian School in Bangkok (SIB), located at 600, 602 Phetchaburi Rd, Thanon Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400. This community service initiative is a reflection of ISI Denpasar’s vision to become a center of excellence in arts and culture, rooted in local wisdom with a universal outlook, as well as its motto, “Global-Bali Arts and Creativity Centre Hub” (G-BACCH).
The Indonesian Cultural Night 2024, held at Kbank Siam Pic-Ganesha Theatre in Bangkok on Sunday (September 15), featured 165 artists from various regions in Indonesia. The Indonesian Ambassador to Thailand, Rachmat Budiman, emphasized the importance of cultural exchange as a bridge for friendship between Indonesia, Thailand, and the international community. “Our cultural heritage is a bridge for our nation. Through this event, we celebrate the richness of our traditions and the beauty of collaboration between Indonesia and Thailand,” said Ambassador Rachmat during the opening.
Around 1,000 attendees, including Thai officials, diplomats, tourists, and local students, enjoyed performances of traditional Indonesian dance and music, such as the Tari Bebarisan Sudamala performed by ISI Denpasar, Tari Ronggeng Panggung from Padjadjaran University, Tari Tor Tor from North Sumatra University, and Tari Prawira Wengker and Tari Lerok Lelono performed by Surabaya State University.
PKMI BCB Team Welcomed by the Indonesian Ambassador in Bangkok
Before the performance, during preparations for the Indonesian Cultural Night at the Siam Square One Theater in Bangkok, Ambassador Rachmat Budiman, accompanied by Education Attaché Cyti Daniela Aruan, received the PKMI BCB team on September 11. “This Indonesian cultural performance in Bangkok gives a positive image. We should not fall behind Thailand’s arts performances,” he expressed. Ambassador Rachmat also praised ISI Denpasar Rector Prof. Dr. I Wayan (Kun) Adnyana for sending an artistic mission that blends Balinese and Javanese arts. He described the Tari Bebarisan Sudamala as a symbolic portrayal of the balance and harmony in life through the gestures of the dance, representing the cultural fusion between Bali and Java, which dates back to the era of Queen Guna Priya Dharmapatni and Dharma Udayana.
New Creation Dance: Manawa-Bhakti-Prabawa (Dharma Mulia Sesama)
One of the highlights of the evening was the performance of a new creation dance titled Manawa-Bhakti-Prabawa (Dharma Mulia Sesama), which tells the story of Sang Kaca, a half-god sent by the gods to learn the art of Amertasanjiwani from Begawan Sukra. After an unfortunate series of events, including his murder and reincarnation, Sang Kaca is taught the art of resurrection by Begawan Sukra, symbolizing the power of life and death and the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds. This dance marked the end of the Indonesian Cultural Night 2024, which was part of the Trade, Tourism, Investment, and Culture Forum (TTICF) 2024 aimed at strengthening Indonesia-Thailand relations through cultural performances, business forums, and art exhibitions.
Teaching Indonesian Students at the Indonesian School in Bangkok
The PKMI-BCB program, running from September 10-16, 2024, followed the Indonesian Ambassador’s invitation as part of the Embassy’s annual cultural night. ISI Denpasar, represented by the Research, Community Service, and Education Development Institute (LP2MPP), met with the Indonesian Embassy and the Indonesian Education and Culture Attaché in Bangkok on August 23, 2024, to discuss the participation of Indonesian students at the Indonesian School in Bangkok through the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) program. This program aimed to teach subjects such as Tari Pendet, Kecak, photography, and drawing to students at the Indonesian School.
The PKMI BCB team was led by ISI Denpasar’s Vice Rector for General Affairs and Finance, Dr. Drs. I Ketut Muka, M.Si, with members including the Head of LP2MPP, Dr. Drs. I Wayan Suardana, M.Sn, along with faculty members and students from the Faculty of Performing Arts, Faculty of Visual Communication Design, and the Faculty of Arts and Culture.
Photo Caption: Rector of ISI Denpasar, Prof. Dr. I Wayan Adnyana, and the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to France, Y.M. Mohamad Oemar, with the Waruna Mukti Dwipantara performance team at the Fête de L’Archipel at the InterContinental Paris Hotel, on October 4, 2023.
The Indonesian Arts Institute (ISI) Denpasar (Bali) continues to strengthen the realization of its educational outcomes on the international stage. After involving four groups of faculty, educational staff, and students in a community service activity in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, it recently participated in the prestigious “Fête de l’Archipel” (Festival of the Archipelago) by presenting a performance of Indonesian traditional dance and a fashion show titled Waruna Mukti Dwipantara, held at the InterContinental Paris Hotel in France, on October 4, 2023.
ISI Denpasar’s participation was by invitation from the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to France, Y.M. Mohamad Oemar. Prior to the performance, a workshop on gamelan and dance was held with the Gamelan Panca Indera Paris group, which consists of seven Balinese and Javanese gamelan players from France.
The Festival of the Archipelago, organized by the Indonesian Embassy in Paris, includes a range of activities, such as economic and trade promotion, culinary exhibitions, business forums, and cultural evenings. It also involves the government, business groups, Indonesian communities, and the diaspora.
Ambassador Oemar mentioned that the festival aims to enhance bilateral cooperation between Indonesia and France. The events held during the festival serve as an effort to promote potential areas of collaboration, including in education and culture. “ISI Denpasar plays an important role in representing the wealth of Indonesian art and culture, which can be enjoyed by the audience in Paris,” said the Ambassador, who is also Indonesia’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO.
Waruna Mukti Dwipantara is an innovative new creation, a performance of Indonesian arts developed by ISI Denpasar’s faculty and students. This work blends aesthetic elements of Nusantara dance and music with modern academic innovations, highlighting the theme of the maritime glory of the archipelago.
The Rector of ISI Denpasar and leader of the performance team, Prof. Dr. I Wayan Adnyana, S.Sn., M.Sn., explained that the performance is part of the Global-Bali Arts and Creativity Centre Hub (G-BACCH) program, Bali Nata Bhuwana Internasional. This program is a realization of the learning outcomes of ISI Denpasar students. The festival served as a platform to disseminate these outcomes internationally. “This event aligns with ISI Denpasar’s vision of becoming a center of excellence in arts and culture, grounded in local wisdom with a universal outlook,” said the rector, who is affectionately called Prof. Kun.
He added that the artistic presentation, which reflects the unique cultural characteristics of various regions in Indonesia, was combined with a fashion show. The performance was prepared by ISI Denpasar’s faculty and students since September 2023, with intensive rehearsals for the best performance.
The Waruna Mukti Dwipantara performance began with a Gambang Suling concert and Oleg Tamulilingan dance, followed by a medley titled Nusantara Murti, featuring Gambyong, Mandau, and Janger dances. The peak of the event featured the Waruna Mukti Dwipantara dance, which tells the story of the Kingdom of Kutai in East Kalimantan, with King Mulawarman and his queen, steering the ship of the kingdom’s glory, until the current Indonesian leadership’s efforts to build the new capital city, Nusantara.
The entire performance was presented by 10 ISI Denpasar students. These included five students from the Dance Department: Made Lola Giarda Putri, Ni Putu Vania Dea Amelinda, Putu Devi Kariasih, I Komang Aswinka Krisnanda, and I Made Yuandika Pramudia; and five students from the Karawitan (Gamelan) Department: I Kadek Anggra Dwianta, Made Dwi Nadyanta Smara, I Dewa Gede Rama Aditya Suputra, I Kadek Agus Erwan Maherwan, and Ni Putu Shinta Mahadewi. Also involved in the performance were Vice Rector for Planning and Cooperation, Prof. Dr. I Komang Sudirga, S.Sn., Karawitan faculty member Saptono, S.Sen., M.Si, and Laboratory Head of Karawitan, I Made Dwi Andika Putra, S.Sn., M.Sn.
The accompanying gamelan music for the performance used Gong Semarandana, combined with Javanese gamelan, and was played by ISI Denpasar’s musicians in collaboration with the Panca Indra Arts Community in Paris.
In addition to the Nusantara dance performance, a fashion show featuring a collection by Nata Kerti Fashion Designer was also presented. Seven outfits made from endek fabric with a dominant maroon color were showcased during the event. These designs, created by faculty and students from ISI Denpasar’s Fashion Design Program, were modeled by students I Komang Pramudia Indraswara and Ni Kadek Pradnyawati, alongside other models.
The performance was attended by Ambassador Y.M. Mohamad Oemar, Ambassador of Indonesia to UNESCO Prof. Dr. Ismunandar, Education and Cultural Attaché of the Indonesian Embassy in Paris Dr. Ni Luh Anik Mayani, French government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business people, academics, and the Indonesian community in Paris.
Ambassador Oemar expressed his appreciation for the Nusantara dance and fashion show presented by ISI Denpasar. He stated that the audience was deeply impressed by the performance, particularly the harmonious blend of dance and gamelan, which effectively conveyed the intended story. The fashion showcased the distinctiveness of traditional Balinese woven fabric. “Everyone who witnessed the performance greatly enjoyed it. It was indeed a beautifully presented work,” he remarked.
Oemar also expressed his gratitude to the Rector of ISI Denpasar for attending the invitation and preparing the performance. “This is an exceptional support from ISI Denpasar for the Indonesian Embassy’s program,” he concluded at the end of the event. (ISIDps/Public Relations).
