Representing India at the Solo International Art Camp 4 in Surakarta, Java, Indonesia. By Prauddha Ghosh
Representing India at the Solo International Art Camp 4 in Surakarta, Java, Indonesia
SOLO INTERNATIONAL ART CAMP4, 2024. By - Prabuddha Ghosh
I recently had the honor of representing India at the Solo International Art Camp 4, held in Surakarta, Java, Indonesia. This international art camp brought together over 90 talented artists from 22 countries across Asia, Europe, North America and Australia. The participants varied in experience and artistic background, with many being seasoned professionals in the creative arts, while others brought fresh, youthful perspectives to the camp.
The event showcased a diverse range of creative artworks. Indonesian artists, in particular, shared fascinating insights into their traditional culture and artistic heritage, while others presented contemporary works that embraced both new and experimental formats, often drawing on time-honored themes. Artists from various countries showcased their creativity uniquely, reflecting their cultural roots and artistic backgrounds.
At the opening press conference, I had the opportunity to discuss with Indonesian media the influence of Indian culture and philosophy in my art. I spoke about the concept of “वसुधैव कुटुम्बकम्” Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, a Sanskrit phrase from ancient Indian texts that means “the world is one family.” This philosophy emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of collective well-being over individual gain—a theme that resonates strongly in my creative process.
For this event, I presented a series of works titled Ethereal Focus: The Mystic, Currents of Destiny, and Echoes of Existence. These pieces delve into Tantra and the symbolism of Tantric expressions. The series, created in mixed media, was well received by art connoisseurs and critics alike. In one of the works, I experimented with a unique “canvas on canvas” technique, a method that I am actively exploring as part of my research into new artistic practices.
The event has been featured in the Standard Post (Multi-City Edition) Newspaper with comprehensive coverage. Simultaneously, the Hindi newspaper "Dastak Prabhat" has published the news in their Patna (Bihar) and Ranchi (Jharkhand) editions. Attached are snapshots of both newspapers, along with additional photographs that were not included due to editorial decisions.
Below is the report published in the Standard Post - Multi-City Edition.
Solo International Art Camp 2024: A Celebration of Unity and Creativity in Surakarta, Indonesia
By Special correspondence, Surakarta, Indonesia.
Surakarta, known fondly as Solo, is a city steeped in history and culture on the Indonesian island of Java. Known as "The Spirit of Java," Surakarta embodies a rich tapestry of Javanese heritage and artistry. The city boasts cultural gems like the 18th-century Keraton Kasunanan, a former royal palace turned museum of heirlooms, and the elaborately painted pavilion at Mangkunegaran Palace. It is also celebrated as a major hub for dyed batik fabric and creative arts, making it the ideal setting for the recently concluded Solo International Art Camp 2024, which took place in the third and fourth weeks of October. This is the fourth edition of this international event, held biennially.
The Solo International Art Camp 2024 brought together over 90 artists from 22 countries across Asia, Europe, North America and Australia, gathering diverse voices in the creative arts. These artists represented an eclectic mix of seasoned professionals and emerging talents, each bringing a unique artistic vision to the event. Together, they shared cultural insights and fresh perspectives through their work, fostering cross-cultural appreciation and connection. The event showcased diverse artworks, blending traditional and contemporary styles from Indonesian and international artists, uniting cultural heritage with modern techniques and celebrating artistic diversity and creative expression.
Indian artist Prabuddha Ghosh fascinated the audience in his discussion with Indonesian media, exploring the influence of Indian culture and philosophy in his work. Ghosh spoke passionately about the ancient Indian concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning “the world is one family.” "This philosophy," Prabuddha said, "emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of collective well-being over individual gain—a theme that resonates strongly in my creative process."
Commander Sulistyo Chung, the key organizer, expressed his pride in hosting such an esteemed group of artists in Surakarta. "Bringing together international artists to work at the Solo International Camp 4, 2024, in the city of Solo is a matter of high national pride and honor," he stated. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Surakarta Culture and Tourism Department, the Jagoan Indonesia Foundation, and numerous dedicated volunteers. “Hopefully, this pride in building together the world of fine arts will continue so that the city of Solo becomes one of the pinnacles of the beauty of fine arts in the world,” he added.
In her inaugural speech, Alana Wang, the deputy in command, expressed gratitude to all the artists and sponsors for their support, and shared her hope that the event will grow even larger in the future.
Arga Pradana has brought a new dimension to the art camp by inviting numerous young students to visit, engage with the artists, and inspiring them to consider art as an essential subject during their school years. He has also skillfully managed the camp with the help of dedicated volunteers and the support of Secretary Gloria Yuniasari. Another key contributor, Nani Budiatik, ensured warm hospitality and skillfully managed public relations for the artists and guests throughout the event, bringing her charming presence to every interaction.
The artists displayed an extraordinary range of creativity. Piotr Jedrzejewski from Poland showcased his unique variety of "kinetic art," a neo-contemporary style that combines industrial design with philosophical musings, reminding viewers that "your time is never up; always, you can do havoc." Marco Miranda from Mexico captivated audiences with his mixed media canvases, celebrating the vastness in small details with exceptional skill.
From Singapore, Leslie Sim presented thought-provoking pieces that blurred the lines between painting and sculpture, offering a new perspective on dimensional art. Filipino artist Melissa Abuga explored the emotional journeys of life through her vivid paintings, while fellow Filipino Arthur Lazano celebrated his homeland’s natural beauty, creating striking visuals inspired by his travels through native highlands. King Rui from Malaysia experimented with smoke as a medium, giving his portraits a haunting, ethereal quality.
Indian artist Prabuddha Ghosh again impressed with his mystic canvases that use tantric symbolism to convey philosophical reflections on life. His works, grounded in ancient Indian mysticism, added a contemplative layer to the event, inviting viewers to explore deeper themes.
Among the more unconventional works, Singaporean artist Casey Cheng displayed a giant sculpture of Doublemint chewing gum pack, with a powerful social statement of responsibility. Chewing gum has been banned in Singapore since 1992, and Cheng’s piece subtly highlighted issues of cultural control and freedom, captured through the familiar real essence of spearmint. Casey also discussed 'Happy Art' and elaborates on the concept behind it.
Syrian-born Australian artist Fassih Keiso brought a cross-cultural flavor to his mixed-media work and video, expressing a blend of Middle Eastern and Western influences. His art exemplified the fusion of styles and identities, resonating deeply with a global audience.
Indonesian artists Herry Sujarwanto, Sutarjayan, Irwan Widjajanto, and Nanang Widjaya have masterfully used their brushes and colors to provide a vivid, comprehensive view of Indonesia and its people, capturing the country's culture and architecture with intensity and depth. Their works, along with those of other talented Indonesian artists, showcase an impressive understanding of color and technique, adding remarkable depth to the exhibition.
Every artist at the Solo International Art Camp 2024 added to the dynamic tapestry of creativity and cultural exchange. From Fish S. Jafar (Singapore) to Naboraj Roy and Ajay Sannyal (Bangladesh), C.A. Tamalar (Myanmar), and Dora Labora (USA), each participant earned admiration from an enthusiastic audience.
The Solo International Art Camp 2024 not only celebrated the city of Solo as a cultural heartland but also honored the power of art as a universal language. With artists connecting over their shared passion, the event was a testament to the city’s spirit, creating a platform for understanding, inspiration, and collaboration among diverse voices.
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