Jakarta, September 6, 2024 – The Indonesian Heritage Agency (IHA), in collaboration with the Shanghai Art Collection Museum, has launched the Traditional Chinese Fine Arts Exhibition titled “Irama Baru Jalur Sutra Maritim” which will be held from September 6 to October 6, 2024, at the National Gallery of Indonesia, Building D. This exhibition is part of the International Tour Exhibition of Traditional Chinese Fine Arts and marks the fourth stop after Alexandria (Egypt), Istanbul (Turkey), and Bratislava (Slovakia).
The “Irama Baru Jalur Sutra Maritim” exhibition features 87 works of art that reflect the rich intangible cultural heritage of Shanghai, an essential part of Chinese culture. The displayed works come from the cultural protection and inheritance units of Shanghai, which have provided over a hundred outstanding representative works. Among them are Jinshan farmer painting art, handicrafts, embossing printing, woodblock printing, paper-cutting art, and various other techniques that showcase the unique characteristics of Shanghai, highlighting the beauty and distinctiveness of traditional Chinese culture.
Zamrud Setya Negara, Head of the Curatorial and Exhibition Team at the Indonesian Heritage Agency, stated, “This exhibition also represents the implementation of the three main pillars of the Indonesian Heritage Agency (IHA), namely Reprogramming, Redesigning, and Reinvigorating, which aim to transform museums into inclusive spaces for sharing experiences and knowledge about Indonesia’s cultural history. In line with this commitment, we always strive to make museums dynamic platforms that foster intercultural dialogue, embrace diversity, and provide broader access for the public to understand and appreciate the rich cultural heritage, both from Indonesia and other countries. Thus, museums can become living and relevant learning centers that inspire future generations to preserve and celebrate their cultural heritage.”
The “Irama Baru Jalur Sutra Maritim” exhibition features four main sections that showcase the richness of culture and the beauty of traditional Shanghai fine arts. The first section, “Beauty in Craftsmanship – Treasures of Shanghai Craft Art,” exhibits nearly forty traditional craft works such as ceramics, enamel, lacquer, jade carving, stone carving, and metal sculptures. These works not only demonstrate the high skill and craftsmanship of the artisans but also illustrate the fusion of traditional and modern concepts, reflecting both the intangible cultural heritage of China and the city of Shanghai. The second section, “Wonders from the East – Shanghai Style Handicrafts,” presents more than 20 handcrafted works that highlight the rapid development of crafts in Shanghai while expressing the distinctive characteristics and regional culture of the area.
The other two sections highlight more specific cultural heritage from China. “Peking Opera Art – Selections of Chinese Theater Art” showcases various elements of Peking Opera, including costumes, portraits, and facial makeup, illustrating the uniqueness and richness of this traditional theatrical art, which was recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2010. Meanwhile, “Paintings of Life and Nostalgia – Selections of Shanghai Farmer Paintings” features over 20 Jinshan farmer paintings, a traditional folk art that reflects the wisdom and aesthetic sentiments of farmers in a simple yet expressive way. Overall, the exhibition takes visitors on a deep journey through the history and beauty of Shanghai’s culture.
“Culture is the best medium to bridge differences, build mutual understanding, and strengthen the relationships between nations. Through this exhibition, we hope to deepen the cultural exchange between the two countries, especially between Shanghai and Jakarta, and build new bridges for friendship and mutual trust between the peoples of both nations, while also strengthening diplomatic relations and expanding mutual understanding of rich cultural values.” stated Mr. Hu Muqing, President of the Shanghai Art Collection Museum.
The “Irama Baru Jalur Sutra Maritim” exhibition serves as a cultural dialogue space between Indonesia and China, offering an opportunity to delve deeper into the rich cultural heritage of both countries. Interaction with foreign cultures not only enriches our perspective but also provides valuable inspiration to better appreciate and embrace our own cultural heritage. Through broader cross-cultural understanding, this exhibition is expected to strengthen national identity and enhance pride in Indonesia’s cultural wealth.
The exhibition is open to the public from September 7 to October 6, 2024, every day from 09:00 AM to 07:00 PM WIB. Ticket prices are Rp 10,000 for children aged 3-12 years, Rp 20,000 for adults, and Rp 50,000 for foreign nationals (WNA). Meanwhile, entry is free for children under three years old and adults over 60 years old. Visitors can obtain tickets by registering directly at the venue (on-site).
***
About Indonesia Heritage Agency
Indonesian Heritage Agency (IHA) is a public service agency under the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia. It is currently responsible for the management of 18 museums and galleries as well as 34 national cultural heritage sites in Indonesia. Established in 2022 and officially inaugurated as a public service agency on September 1, 2023, IHA envisions itself as a collaborative institution that fosters creativity, social change, and the development of a cultured society.
IHA prioritizes improving services based on protection as the main focus. By embracing creativity and promoting an inclusive collaborative spirit, MCB collectively contributes to broadening deep appreciation of Indonesia’s diverse cultural heritage.
About the National Gallery of Indonesia
The National Gallery of Indonesia is a contemporary art center that promotes Indonesia’s diverse cultural identity through the universal language of visual arts. Located in Central Jakarta, the National Gallery of Indonesia was built and developed over three periods: the Old Order, the New Order, and the Reform Era.
By embracing various forms of modern visual arts, including installation art, media art, and alternative media, the National Gallery of Indonesia encourages innovation and experimentation among contemporary artists, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and reflecting Indonesia’s dynamic cultural landscape. The National Gallery of Indonesia is committed to preserving Indonesia’s artistic heritage through the collection, documentation, conservation, maintenance, and presentation of national artworks, so that they can be appreciated and studied by future generations.
For more information, please contact:
IHA Communication Team
Michael Reza Say (+62 811-9725-854)
National Gallery of Indonesia Team
Ajeng Aprilla (+62 878-2612-5750)
