Indonesian Contemporary Art & Design (ICAD) is the first exhibition that proposed the idea of collaborating design, art, and the hotel industry. This fourth annual installation took place in Grandkemang Hotel and is titled ‘RESTART’, involving the likes of many local graphic designers, photographers, videographers, painters, and even performers. The artists showed their take on history, stories, and events of the past to the present through contemporary art. Other than the artists who participated in the show, there were emerging artists from universities as well, such as people from Bina Nusantara (BINUS) and Institut Kesenian Jakarta (IKJ).

The local art scene is starting to build an audience. The exhibition was not only composed of artworks, but also talks, workshops and screenings. Even Gita Wirjawan, Indonesia’s Minister of Trade came as a speaker to the convention.

The exhibiton highlights works and live performances by more than 40 artists, giving us as the audience a variety of art to experience. With 30-something works displayed, and a number of screenings, no wonder the first ICAD was pointed as the best exhibition back in 2009. You could say ICAD has been an inspiration for many.

The variety of works shown and support given by the government makes us realize the potential of the local art scene. From multimedia works referencing ‘7 Bidadari’ from the Indonesian folklore to sculptures citings renowned poet Chairil Anwar, a recurring theme does take place throughout the exhibition. We can see many references from Indonesian society, culture and even politics.

Some of the works featured in the 6-week show stood out more than others. Such as the 6 feet tall ‘Raja Dangdut’ statue. Rhoma Irama has presented himself as a musician for many years. He can be even considered an icon in Indonesia, with his specific style. Recently he had announced that he is running as president. That being said, this statue represents more than just an icon, but it will also be a point of reference in the future to see what Rhoma used to be and is.

Another interesting work that was shown was made by Francis Surjaseputra and Doddy Obenk, entitled ‘7’. It took reference from an Indonesian folklore tale of Joko Tarup and the 7 angels, where Joko Tarup took one of angels’ cloth when they were taking a bath. In the installation Francis and Doddy puts you in the position of Joko, where there is printed images of 7 pair of lady legs and a video of the same legs moving around, and laughter of young women could be heard in the room. It was the perfect choice for them to use legs to portray a woman’s beauty without being pornographic at all.

Article written by: Raven Navaro