Arts

Beyond elasticity: History, economics intersect in rubber art

The seeds of rubber’s history in Indonesia took root when the first tree was planted in 1864 at the Bogor Botanical Gardens. Nearly two centuries later, artists in the world’s second-largest producer of natural rubber are exploring the colonial commodity’s role in shaping the decolonization narrative through their works.

Arts

Belief in regeneration: Teater Keliling preserves dramatic arts for half a century

Founded in 1974, Teater Keliling is a prolific group of theatrical artists that recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with a fresh, musical reinterpretation of the classic play Mega Mega by Arifin C. Noer.

Arts

A whole new world: Desmonda Cathabel’s journey from Jakarta to the West End

Her journey from musical-theater fan to the biggest stages in the world almost feels like a Disney tale of passion, perseverance and a bit of magic.

Culture and Entertainment

Highlighting LGBTQ representation in pop culture

The series was well-received by Indonesia’s LGBT communities. CONQ’s tagline was “The Voice of Indonesia’s Gay and Lesbian Community.” Rest in peace, gone, silenced, but never forgotten.

The Neighborhood

Kick-start your summer: Five events to attend in June

As we bid adieu to May, we welcome a slew of events that scream “Summer!” 

Culture and Entertainment

Dear Taylor: Look what you made us do

The American singer-songwriter’s greatest power is her ability to unite people across all walks of life to create a global community, which also translates into a real-life economic impact, whether on nations or small businesses.

Arts

Deconstructing Nicholas Saputra

In his latest film, The Architecture of Love, the iconic actor charts new territory as he shows that growth is a thespian's greatest asset.

Culture and Entertainment

Must-see homegrown silver-screen adaptations

Yes, we’re well aware of the issues with screen adaptations of literary masterpieces. And yes, some really good reads have been massacred on screen, whether because of the artistic liberties taken, the stars cast or even the way the scenes fail to live up to your imagination. But when they work, they REALLY work.

Culture and Entertainment

‘A Space For The Unbound’: Trailblazing with cultural identity

The critically acclaimed Indonesian adventure video game gains global acclaim by delivering a deeply compelling narrative

The Neighborhood

Jakarta Highlights: Where to go for a pop of culture

Our beloved Jakarta is a city that has a little something for everyone, isn’t it? Whether you like big bashes or intimate gatherings, the city is bustling with celebrations, making sure there is a platform for subcultures of any kind.

Culture and Entertainment

To my horror, it’s just a movie!

The upsurge of horror movies shown in the theaters in Indonesia makes one wonder: how is the Indonesian audience being molded by film producers? Or is it the other way around, with the audience dictating the film market?

The Neighborhood

Where to stroll in a city where ‘nobody wants to walk’

With urban walking gaining recent traction in Jakarta, here are our top five places for taking an idle stroll in the capital.

Arts

Joko Anwar's Leap of Faith

The Indonesian auteur has crafted himself a rich and remarkable filmography. His latest project, Siksa Kubur (Grave Torture), is a prayer of questions and restlessness.

Arts

Immersive Artistry: Exploring architecture and art with Bunga Yuridespita

“Common Sanctum” at the Salihara Art Center is an immersive and delightful sophomore exhibit from the architect-turned-artist.

Culture and Entertainment

‘Mega Mega’, the musical: A triumphant revisiting of a classic

In celebration of Teater Keliling’s 50th anniversary, the revival of the timeless tragicomedy-drama Mega Mega, with all-new original music, perfectly captures the magic of theater in a hilarious, yet moving package.