*This piece is the translated version of an article I wrote for IndonesiaMengglobal.com entitled Dunia Seni Terbuka Untuk Anak Indonesia
“There is little
difference between an artist and an unemployed man,” said one of new friends, a
veteran artist and writer. Even though a decade has flown by since I first
stepped foot into performance arts and writing world, this is the first time I
heard those bitter words flutter through an artist’s lips.
“Then, why Sir, did you
become an artist?” I asked, barely satisfied with his statement.
He turned to me and
said, “May I ask you something first?” He deliberately paused before
continuing, “Why are you studying theatre?”
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| Snapshot of the IM Article |
The question hovered in
my head and quickly became one of most intriguing and monumental question to
appear on this art student’s table. After a few minutes worth of pondering, two
more questions emerged. First, could art improve the social situation in
Indonesia? Second, would the knowledge of art enrich the lives of those who do
not revel in the art world, such as businessmen, bankers, athletes, teachers,
etc.?
If art is not valued as
a profession, why did I put myself at the other side of the world to study it?
Somehow, this question rarely appears in my head. Perhaps it is due to my
parents’ constant support, as well as Sarah Lawrence curriculum’s tendency to
encourage students to delve into a variety of subjects. Most likely, the answer
lies in my past and identity. As a theatre, literature, and art lover, I have
never ventured far from arts.
My parents, who are,
neither artists nor comfortable art dwellers, presented me with opportunities
to learn art through after school lessons. Even though I am a sensitive person,
rarely do I feel angered or bothered by questions and/or comments that degrade
the value of arts. I have grown to believe that art is a pertinent aspect of my
identity. Working in the theatre, while being a freelance writer, is second
nature to me. With time what were hobbies initially have become part of my
identity and passion.
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| The Steps To Nirvana |
Indonesia, in my
opinion, can use arts as positive mechanisms. Each time, I visit the art market
or meet senior artists, I experience friendliness and warmth; they are very
open about their inspiration and not threaten to keep their ideas secret.
Often, I was awed by their ability to welcome new people without examining the
newcomer’s background. Unlike business dwellers, which tend to find power in
knowledge, artists tend to take a step back and observe the individual at the
present. For instance, the first question that are uttered to a new person
revolve around the latter’s current projects or interests, perspectives on
certain art project, instead of the person’s origin, profession or age.
The interactions with artists
made me realize that the society tends to value others based on their
possessions such as cars, bags, income, where do they live, or age. While
artists value others based on their appeal, passion or mission? By focusing on
the individual’s attributes, rather than their tangible items, I think
Indonesians are more likely to work together and accept one another openly.
Moreover, the existence of two, often contrasting, passions is not a taken as a
threat, instead it reminds us that two opposite talents and/or interests could
only complete each other.
Art should be an
imperative part of our professional lives. Art can be divided into a variety of
concentrations and functions, which would change one’s lives in different
ways. I often meet students or professionals
who are having mental blocks when they need to present their ideas both
verbally and on paper. These problems can be solved easily by implementing
proper breathing, posture, vocal and doing basic acting, which is regularly
done in performing art classes.
Finally, art
appreciation is beneficial for those who have other interests. Creative writing
class are a godsend when it comes to teaching us how to write freely and
explore our imagination. Visual arts often aid us in problem solving. In turn,
the performing art world is known for the strict discipline, strict ethics and
accountably, which are attributes that are highly desirable in professional
settings.
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| Batik Brainstorm of Myself circa 2009 |
Choosing to be an artist
is often stigmatized, as it is associated with unemployment and financial
difficulty. Society regularly labels artists as 'lazy' or 'messy', however the
openness and warm culture that artists cultivate might be a viable positive reinforcement
to strengthen bonding in the society.
I love the world of
theater and writing. In addition to enriching my life, it has changed my
identity and passions for the better. Indonesia is a nation of culture and art.
Home to a large group of artists, Indonesia is a nation of culture and art. You
may see yourself in the mirror and see someone who is not artistically in
tuned, just remember that art is an interaction of both nature and nurture.
Learning art is an invaluable process that may take you towards different
directions. And if all fails, you will find yourself much more
appreciative of art, which is highly required to build our country.
*Author owns all photos used above
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