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.
