Art History

Of the various art forms popular throughout Indonesia, and particularly in Bali, painting is the one most influenced by both western ideas and demand. Yet until the start of this century, the portrayal of Hindu epics was the dominating form. Generally, artists were not afforded room for personal expression, as their designs followed strict aesthetic and religions guidelines. However, this trend began to change at the beginning of the 20th century with the arrival of European painters, as artists formed unique and hybridized styles.

The use of Asian symbols in the works of, amongst others, Paul Gauguin, Toulouse Lautrec and Camille Pissaro, created interest and fascination with Asian-influenced art. European painters traveled to Bali to experience the culture first-hand, and some never returned. Ubud’s international fame as Bali’s preeminent city for art can be traced and accredited to the arrival of German painter Walter Spies, and Dutch painter Rudolf Bonnet. Together, with Indonesian artist Gede Agung Sukawati, the last “king” of Ubud, they established the Pitamaha Group. This institution was formed to legitimize and institutionalize Indonesian art while encouraging Balinese artists to both grow and diverge from traditional painting.