On Thursday, April 24, 2025, the Study Program of Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) organized a field study as part of the Critique of Visual Arts, Design, and Media Arts course. Twelve students attended this activity under the guidance of the course instructor, Dr. Suwarno Wisetrotomo, M.Hum.
During the field study, the group visited the open studio of Cemeti Institute for Art and Society, open to the public from April 18 to May 24, 2025, Tuesday to Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Cemeti Institute is a renowned contemporary art institution with a longstanding reputation for supporting experimental art practices in Indonesia. One of the main sessions of the visit was a presentation by Agung Kurniawan, a prominent Indonesian artist, who explored various possibilities of drawing as a medium of expression. Kurniawan critically reflected on the relevance of drawing in today’s artistic context, questioning whether it remains a potent form of communication or has lost its significance.
Carrying the motto “better to be drenched in sweat at the studio than in blood at the gallery,” Agung Kurniawan emphasized the importance of resilience and preparedness in facing the challenges of art exhibitions. In addition to drawings, he also showcased five garments, five masks, and nine pairs of shoes as part of his collection.
The students demonstrated high enthusiasm throughout the field study. Dynamic discussions enriched their understanding of contemporary art practices. At the end of the session, Riza Pradito Yuwono, Director of Cemeti Institute, delivered an introduction to the institution’s history and profile, broadening the students’ insights into the role of art institutions in sustaining Indonesia’s art ecosystem.
This field study also contributed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 on Quality Education, by providing students with hands-on, practice-based learning experiences. (AHP)
