Photo: The Minister of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, B.Sc., reviews the Retrospective Exhibition of Contemporary Painting “Parama Paraga” at Nata-Cita Art Space (N-CAS), ISI Bali, on Wednesday (March 25).
The extensive trajectory of contemporary visual art is encapsulated in the Retrospective Exhibition of Contemporary Painting “Parama Paraga” by artist and Rector of the Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI Bali), Prof. Dr. Wayan Kun Adnyana, held at Nata-Cita Art Space (N-CAS) ISI Bali on Wednesday (March 25) afternoon.
This exhibition represents a personal initiative by Prof. Kun Adnyana, presenting a reflection on more than two decades of his artistic practice. Curated by Jeon Dongsu, Warih Wisatsana, and Alaida Niwaya, the exhibition features 88 works that demonstrate a visual transformation—from explorations of the human body to the development of abstract compositions grounded in line and color.
At the opening, the Minister of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, B.Sc., was in attendance and directly observed the exhibited works. Her presence also formed part of the opening series of the Fifth Widya Mahardika Kalangan, held within the ISI Bali campus environment.
Photo: The Retrospective Exhibition of Contemporary Painting “Parama Paraga” by Prof. Kun Adnyana at Nata-Cita Art Space (N-CAS), ISI Bali, Wednesday (March 25).
In his statement, Prof. Kun Adnyana emphasized that “Parama Paraga” constitutes a long-term process documenting the evolving dynamics of his artistic inquiry. “This is a long process—spanning more than 20 years—from the exploration of the body toward pure color compositions, with line as the primary foundation,” he explained.
The Professor of Art History also associated the exhibition with the spirit of the Fifth Widya Mahardika Kalangan, which carries the theme “Kirtya–Jnana–Kawya,” as an effort to explore and elevate knowledge through artistic practice.
As an art space situated within an academic environment, Nata-Cita Art Space (N-CAS) ISI Bali serves as a strategic platform for presenting contemporary visual art practices to the public while strengthening the academic ecosystem. The presence of this solo exhibition also highlights the dual role of Prof. Kun Adnyana—not only as an institutional leader but also as an actively practicing artist.
Prof. Kun Adnyana further noted that the event is not merely an exhibition, but also an “academic arts festival” that encourages lecturers and students to confidently engage on the global stage. “Cultural-based tourism is a fundamental pillar in advancing Balinese arts and culture. Therefore, we invited the Minister of Tourism as part of a synergy between the art world and the tourism sector,” he asserted.
Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, B.Sc., expressed particular appreciation for the exhibition, noting its artistic strength and thematic diversity. According to her, the works not only possess aesthetic value but also enrich the cultural narrative of Bali within the development of contemporary art.
The “Parama Paraga” exhibition is scheduled to run until May 4 and is open to the public as a space for appreciating the extensive journey of an artist in responding to the evolution of contemporary visual art.
Photo: The Opening of the Fifth Widya Mahardika Kalangan at the Kirtya Sabha Mahottama Auditorium, Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI Bali), Wednesday (March 25).
The Minister of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, B.Sc., officially inaugurated the Fifth Widya Mahardika Kalangan (Academic Arts Week), themed Kirtya–Jnana–Kawya “The Nobility of Elevated Knowledge,” at the Kirtya Sabha Mahottama Auditorium, Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI Bali), on Wednesday (March 25). Now in its fifth year, this event continues to serve as a creative platform that integrates artistic development, knowledge advancement, and the reinforcement of Balinese cultural values.
In her remarks, Widiyanti highlighted the shifting trends in global tourism, which are increasingly oriented toward more meaningful and immersive experiences. According to her, tourists are no longer merely seeking destinations, but rather experiences that provide deeper significance.
She also expressed appreciation for the role of ISI Bali as an arts education institution closely connected to the tourism ecosystem. She noted that the contributions of its academic community and alumni have enriched various cultural and artistic events, both at the local and national levels.
“Widya Mahardika Kalangan has been held for five years and has become an important platform for showcasing innovation while exploring the noble values of Balinese tradition,” she stated.
Photo: The Opening Ceremony of the Fifth Widya Mahardika Kalangan at the Kirtya Sabha Mahottama Auditorium, Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI Bali), Wednesday (March 25).
The Minister of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, B.Sc., officially inaugurated the Fifth Widya Mahardika Kalangan (Academic Arts Week), themed Kirtya–Jnana–Kawya “The Nobility of Elevated Knowledge,” at the Kirtya Sabha Mahottama Auditorium, Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI Bali), on Wednesday (March 25). Now entering its fifth year, the event continues to function as a creative platform that integrates artistic development, intellectual advancement, and the strengthening of Balinese cultural values.
In her remarks, Widiyanti underscored the shifting trends in global tourism, which are increasingly oriented toward deeper and more meaningful experiences. According to her, tourists are no longer merely seeking destinations, but rather experiences that offer significance and lasting impressions.
She also expressed her appreciation for the role of ISI Bali as an arts education institution that maintains a close relationship with the tourism ecosystem. She emphasized that the contributions of its academic community and alumni have enriched a wide range of cultural and artistic events at both local and national levels.
“Widya Mahardika Kalangan has been held for five years and has become an important platform for presenting innovation while exploring the noble values inherent in Balinese traditions,” she stated.
Photo: The Opening of the Fifth Widya Mahardika Kalangan at the Kirtya Sabha Mahottama Auditorium, Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI Bali), Wednesday (March 25).
The Fifth Widya Mahardika Kalangan presents a diverse range of artistic programs that reflect the richness of expression and innovation of the academic community of the Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI Bali). The series of events includes a Colossal Intermedium Performance entitled Kirtya–Jnana–Kawya as the main opening highlight, as well as a Retrospective Exhibition of Contemporary Painting, Parama Paraga, featuring the works of the Rector of ISI Bali, Prof. Dr. Wayan Kun Adnyana.
In addition, the Widya Mahardika Kalangan also showcases a Ritual Performing Arts Procession imbued with traditional values, alongside a Dance-Drama Performance of Luwih Arja Luh entitled Ranu–Saraswati–Rasmi, representing the development of tradition-based performing arts through creative and contextual approaches.
Photo: Performance of Serng Kratip Dance by students of Angthong College of Dramatic Arts and Roi Et College of Dramatic Arts, Thailand, together with students of ISI BALI, Monday (23/2) at Natya Mandala Hall, ISI BALI.
The Indonesian Institute of the Arts Bali (ISI BALI) held an art performance featuring a cultural collaboration between Angthong College of Dramatic Arts and Roi Et College of Dramatic Arts, Thailand, and the academic community of ISI BALI on Monday (23/2) at Natya Mandala Hall, ISI BALI. This performance served as a continuation of the art workshop previously conducted with the Thai delegation, as well as a platform for appreciating the outcomes of the learning process and cultural exchange that had taken place.
The event commenced with the performance of Selat Segara Dance presented by students of the Performing Arts Education Study Program (PSP) at ISI BALI, accompanied by gamelan music performed by PSP students. This opening performance created a dynamic atmosphere while introducing the richness of Balinese performing arts to the guests from Thailand.
Photo: Karawitan performance by lecturers from Angthong College of Dramatic Arts and Roi Et College of Dramatic Arts, Thailand, together with lecturers and students of ISI BALI, Monday (23/2) at Natya Mandala Hall, ISI BALI.
Subsequently, the Thai delegation presented three traditional Thai dances representing the cultural diversity of various regions of Thailand. The first performance was Fon Dok Mai or Dance of Flowers, a traditional dance characterized by graceful hand movements and the use of flower props symbolizing beauty and harmony.
The second dance was Serng Kratip, a folk dance from the Isan region distinguished by dynamic movements and the use of pleated cloth that forms a wing-like silhouette as the dancers move. This dance was performed collaboratively by Thai students together with ISI BALI students who had previously participated in the Thai traditional dance workshop.
The performance concluded with an Isan folk dance performed in pairs by male and female dancers. The dance portrays the joyful and communal life of rural society, expressed through energetic and expressive movements.
In addition to the dance performances, the event also showcased the results of the karawitan workshop previously conducted with ISI BALI students. The performance was presented by lecturers from Thailand together with the Vice Rector for Student Affairs and Cooperation of ISI BALI, Prof. Dr. Komang Sudirga; the Head of the Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM), Dr. Ketut Garwa; the Coordinator of the Performing Arts Education Study Program (PSP), Putu Hartini, M.Sn; the Coordinator of the Karawitan Study Program, Made Dwi Andika Putra, M.Sn; and several PSP students of ISI BALI. This collaboration demonstrated the exchange of knowledge and artistic practices between both parties throughout the workshop activities.
This performance became an important momentum in strengthening academic and cultural relations between ISI BALI and arts institutions from Thailand. Through collaborative artistic presentations, the event enriched the artistic experiences of students while fostering cultural dialogue among artists and academics from both countries.
Photo: Institut Seni Indonesia Bali (ISI Bali) organized a traditional Thai dance workshop with delegations from Angthong College of Dramatic Arts and Roi Et College of Dramatic Arts, Monday (23/2) at the Dance Studio of ISI Bali.
Institut Seni Indonesia Bali welcomed a delegation from Angthong College of Dramatic Arts and Roi Et College of Dramatic Arts, Thailand, as part of an initiative to explore institutional cooperation in the fields of performing arts and collaborative workshops. The activity took place on Monday (23/2) at the Natya Mandala Building, ISI Bali.
The Thai delegation consisted of institutional leaders, lecturers, and students from both colleges. The delegation from Angthong College of Dramatic Arts was led by its Director, Etsawat Paksin, accompanied by faculty members Channar Kaeosawang, Chalermchai Pimonrak, Ratchanewan Srinsakrat, Suchanya Kongsin, Thitima Ongthong, and Atitak Rukdee, along with students Vongathorn Timnoee, Nattanan Chumsuwan, and Kanyarat Kumsin.
Meanwhile, the delegation from Roi Et College of Dramatic Arts was led by its Director, Benjita Petchsom, together with Deputy Director Kemika Wongamrin. The delegation also included lecturers Achariya Wongsi, Nattawan Pimonket, Phailin Sarnkam, Chaimongkhon Sriphaet, Runset Sritham, and Pongsakda Padkeoplon, as well as students Jariya Chosakao and Chanantida Luaksiase.
Photo: A Balinese gamelan (karawitan) workshop attended by lecturers from Angthong College of Dramatic Arts and Roi Et College of Dramatic Arts, Thailand, Monday (23/2) at the Karawitan Studio of ISI Bali.
In addition to discussions on potential institutional cooperation, the visit was also marked by a series of arts workshops as a form of knowledge exchange and artistic experience between the participating institutions. The Thai delegation conducted a traditional Thai dance workshop at the Dance Studio of ISI Bali, attended by students of the Dance Study Program. The activity provided students with the opportunity to learn about the techniques, aesthetics, and movement characteristics of Thai dance traditions.
As a reciprocal initiative, ISI Bali organized a karawitan (Balinese traditional gamelan music) workshop at the Karawitan Studio. The session was delivered by the Vice Rector for Student Affairs and Cooperation of ISI Bali, Komang Sudirga, together with the Head of the Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM) of ISI Bali, Ketut Garwa. The workshop was attended by lecturers and students from the Thai delegation, who were introduced to the fundamentals of Balinese traditional music, particularly through practical engagement with karawitan performance.
Photo: Riri Riza (right) during the 39th Undergraduate, Applied Undergraduate, Master’s, and Doctoral Graduation Ceremony held on Friday (27/2) at the Kirtya Sabha Mahottama Auditorium, Institut Seni Indonesia Bali.
The Doctoral Program in Arts under the Postgraduate Program of Institut Seni Indonesia Bali (ISI Bali), which has received an “Excellent” accreditation from the Badan Akreditasi Nasional Perguruan Tinggi (BAN-PT), once again reaffirmed its reputation as an academic sphere that cultivates research-based thinkers and art practitioners. Its alumni track record demonstrates tangible contributions across various sectors of arts and culture, including artistic creation, scholarly inquiry, and cultural policy.
At the 39th Undergraduate, Applied Undergraduate, Master’s, and Doctoral Graduation Ceremony held on Friday (27/2) at the Kirtya Sabha Mahottama Auditorium, ISI Bali, two prominent national public figures were formally conferred the degree of Doctor of Arts: filmmaker Riri Riza and actress Zeezee Shahab. They graduated alongside fellow candidates in a solemn and dignified ceremony.
Riri Riza, born Mohammad Rivai Riza, is widely recognized as a director and producer whose works have played a significant role in shaping modern Indonesian cinema. Through his films, he has presented reflective and contextually grounded cinematic perspectives in interpreting social and cultural realities. His doctoral studies at ISI Bali provided an academic platform for deepening and critically examining his longstanding creative practice, while simultaneously enriching the discourse of arts scholarship grounded in professional experience.
Photo: Zeezee Shahab (right) during the 39th Undergraduate, Applied Undergraduate, Master’s, and Doctoral Graduation Ceremony held on Friday (27/2) at the Kirtya Sabha Mahottama Auditorium, ISI Bali.
Meanwhile, Zeezee Shahab, whose full name is Fauziah Shahab, was likewise officially awarded the Doctor of Arts degree on the same occasion. Her career in the performing arts and the national creative industry is now further strengthened by a solid academic and research foundation. Doctoral education provided her with a critical reflective space to elaborate on acting practices and the dynamics of the creative industry from a scholarly perspective.
The presence of graduates with diverse professional backgrounds affirms that the Doctoral Program in Arts at ISI Bali is not merely a center for academic advancement, but also a dialogical space bridging theory and practice, creation and critical thought. The program continues to position itself as a platform for strengthening ideas, articulating research-based artistic praxis, and advancing arts scholarship that remains responsive to the dynamics of contemporary culture.
Photo: The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Indonesia, Tanya Dimitrova, Ph.D., delivered a guest lecture at the General Lecture Hall, Design Hub, Institut Seni Indonesia Bali, Tuesday (3/3).
Institut Seni Indonesia Bali (ISI Bali) further strengthened its international network through a guest lecture featuring the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Indonesia, Tanya Dimitrova, Ph.D., held at the General Lecture Hall, Design Hub, ISI Bali, on Tuesday (3/3). The Ambassador was accompanied by the Bulgarian Trade Commissioner to Indonesia, Daniel Dobrev.
In her presentation, Ambassador Tanya Dimitrova addressed the theme, “70 Years of Diplomatic Relations between Bulgaria and Indonesia.” She traced the historical trajectory of bilateral relations established in 1956, encompassing cooperation in the political, economic, educational, and cultural spheres. According to her, Bulgaria and Indonesia share a strong foundation of friendship grounded in mutual respect and a shared commitment to international collaboration.
Photo: The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Republic of Indonesia, Tanya Dimitrova, Ph.D., and moderator Nyoman Dewi Pebryani, Ph.D., during the guest lecture at the General Lecture Hall, Design Hub, ISI Bali, Tuesday (3/3).
She particularly underscored the significance of cultural and educational diplomacy as pivotal bridges for strengthening bilateral relations. In this context, the arts were framed as a strategic medium for fostering intercultural dialogue, enhancing mutual understanding, and generating creative collaboration opportunities between the younger generations of Bulgaria and Indonesia.
The guest lecture, moderated by Nyoman Dewi Pebryani, Ph.D., was attended by approximately one hundred students from both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Participants demonstrated strong engagement throughout the session, particularly during the discussion segment, which explored opportunities for international study and academic mobility.
One of the most compelling highlights was the introduction of the Erasmus+ scholarship program, offering Indonesian students the opportunity to undertake one year of study in Bulgaria. The program provides access to academic and cultural experiences at various Bulgarian universities through exchange schemes or advanced study pathways.
In his welcoming remarks, the Vice Rector for Student Affairs and Cooperation of ISI Bali, Komang Sudirga, expressed his appreciation for the Ambassador’s visit and the accompanying delegation. He emphasized that the visit represents a strategic momentum for expanding ISI Bali’s international cooperation, particularly in the fields of education and culture.
He further noted that the Erasmus+ scholarship constitutes a valuable opportunity for ISI Bali students to broaden their global perspectives while simultaneously presenting Indonesian artistic and cultural identity on the international stage. He expressed hope that the meeting would be followed by concrete initiatives to establish institutional partnerships between universities in Bulgaria and ISI Bali.
