The Master and Doctoral Program in Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies, Graduate School, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) organized an event entitled “Art and Religion Studies” on Monday, March 25, 2024. This event combined a discussion and buka puasa (fast-breaking) gathering to explore the intricate relationship between art and religion, particularly in the context of Indonesia.
Opened at 4:30 PM by the Head of the Magister Study Program, Dr. Rr. Paramitha Dyah Fitriasari, M.Hum., the event featured Dr. Samsul Maarif, M.A. as the keynote speaker. Dr. Anchu, as he is familiarly called, is the Head of the Study Program in Religious and Cross-Culture and a lecturer at the PSPSR UGM Study Program. In his presentation, he emphasized the crucial role of art in responding to religious phenomena, especially in Indonesia. This aligns with one of the points in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) regarding strengthening inclusive and peaceful societies to achieve sustainable development.
A lively discussion and sharing session followed, where participants enthusiastically delved into various issues related to art and religion. The event was attended by around 60 students of the Master and Doctoral Program in PSPSR, as well as academics and other UGM members, including the Head of the Doctoral Program, Dr. Budi Irawanto S.I.P., M.A., the Coordinator of Quality Assurance for the Master Program, Dr. G.R. Lono Lastoro Simatupang, M.A., and the Coordinator of Quality Assurance for the Doctoral Program, Dr. Yohanes Tri Mastoyo, M.Hum.
To conclude, the event ended with a buka puasa together, where participants enjoyed various takjil (fast-breaking meals) brought by each other. The atmosphere of intimacy and togetherness became the highlight of the event, reflecting the values of inclusivity and peace promoted in the Art and Religion Studies event. (AU)
