The Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies Program (PSPSR) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) organised a session on Thursday, May 8, to connect with PSPSR alumni under the theme, “Menjalin Silaturahmi, Menggelar Aspirasi.” This event was moderated by Heni Siswantari, M.A., and featured three speakers who provided inspiration and insight: Dr Aris Setiawan, S.Sn, M.Sn, and Dr Rs Paramitha Dyah Fitriasari, M.Hum. Karen Hardini, M.A.
This program was part of the Syawalan Seni celebration, which marked 34 years of PSPSR UGM and 36 years of Lono Simatupang’s academic journey. In his sharing, Dr. Rr. Paramitha presented the latest data and news from PSPSR to guests, alumni, and students. This sharing provided a discourse to everyone about what has been done and what else can be done to ensure the sustainability of the quality of education in line with the recommendations in the SDG requirements. Dr. Paramitha also presented the most recent curriculum structure development and is a major driving force behind the study program. The presentation is significant since the individuals present are considered stakeholders, and their opinions and perspectives are helpful for improvement. Dr. Paramitha also extended a warm welcome to alumni and anybody else interested in knowledge-sharing initiatives.
The next speaker, Karen Hardini, alumni of PSPSR, shared what she had gained from her studies and how she practised art, especially in rural areas. She also shared how she had moved from a rural project to an art curator. She also shared how community service activities, such as the Donga Sekenteng and Sendratari Festivals (Teneran, Magelang) that she remembered and went through during college, greatly impacted Karen. Where that experience inspired and continued the implementation of the latest practice, namely the Folktarium Muria Pemeran Residensi Tapa Ngeli: Muria, Santri, Kretek (at the Mount Murria, Kudus, January – April 2025). Karen’s sharing has also inspired students to continue their practice in institutions and collaborate with residents. Reasoning in the field becomes a practice that has an impact, especially if done collectively.
Dr. Aris discussed alumni returning as a means of reciprocation. His speech about strengthening networks, recognising the significance of prior institutions, and demonstrating respect was uplifting. He further stated (as an example) that PSPSR students who engage in gamelan do so not for the practice but for the underlying significance. Art is not merely exhibited; it encompasses what lies behind or beyond the creation. It’s not just a skill and practice, but beyond that. Our accomplishments and knowledge from the school are contributions we offer to the community, so we are returning to society. His meaningful sharing has opened the minds of students to think further. He also stated that creative collaboration and research resources can be carried out between students, alumni, and the community. He also expressed his appreciation to Dr. G.R. Lono Lastoro S., M.A., an inspirer, mentor, and researcher who has contributed a lot to the development of students. Dr. Aris also spoke about the relevance of art studies in terms of comprehensive research, bridging traditions, social impact, and global perspectives.
Through this sharing session, we have established a new network among alumni, students, and UGM postgraduate schools that involves networking and planning for collective projects. From this session, we can also see the inspiring alumni and the development of their knowledge. It has presented the quality of education and lifelong learning, which the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies Program (PSPSR) often implements. From this session, PSPSR has also succeeded in providing new energy to its students and alumni to continue working and contributing. This session has fostered empathy inside the connected environment. This is evident from the alumni’s contributions within the community and the field and the student feedback during the session. Hopefully, such programs can be continued, allowing current collaborative networks to grow in synergy and offer inspiration. (HA)
