The Graduate Program in Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR), Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada, continues its initiative Ngobrol Tesis—a discussion forum designed to share academic insights in a conversational yet informative format. The program invites PSPSR alumni to share their experiences, research processes, and findings from their master’s theses, from initial ideas to final outcomes.
In this edition, the featured speaker was Ramdani Rachmat, S.Sn., M.A. (PSPSR Alumnus, 2022 Even Semester), presenting his thesis entitled “Art and Cultural Memory: A Case Study on the Wanar Dance and the Banda Genocide in Maluku.” The discussion was moderated by Delfin Febriansyah, S.Sn. (PSPSR Student, 2024 Odd Semester).
Ramdani explained that his research topic originated from his participation in a program initiated by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, which eventually led him to explore the artistic heritage of Wandan Village in Maluku. Among its cultural richness, the Wanar Dance particularly drew his attention, not only for its artistic value but also for its profound emotional and historical resonance.
His thesis connects the symbolic meanings embedded in the Wanar Dance with the historical narrative of the Banda genocide. Through this research, Ramdani aims to explore the identity of the indigenous Banda people, offering new perspectives on collective memory, cultural expression, and the interrelationship between art and history.
The full discussion can be accessed through the Ngobrol Tesis podcast at the following link:
[http://ugm.id/NgobrolTesis2].
This initiative is also aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, by promoting education, preserving the arts, and reinterpreting cultural heritage.
