On July 16, 2025, Forum Rabu Wagen: A Sharing Knowledge Session was held at the Collaborative Space, Graduate School, Universitas Gadjah Mada. This session was initiated by Dr Budi Irawanto, the head of the doctoral program in Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR). It was named Rabu Wagen to mark the 35-day cycles of days in the Javanese calendar. It is a monthly gathering for PhD candidates from PSPSR to come together and discuss their most recent progress. Dr Budi himself chaired this session, emphasising the solitary nature of the PhD journey. Overcoming such barriers could be achieved by holding a forum like this as a platform for togetherness, allowing for direct discussions. In this forum session, three shared knowledge topics were presented, starting with Mendeley Cite, presented by Mr. Hendra. Then, a sharing session by Mr Ando related to Mendeley Desktop, and finally, a sharing session on research topics by Mr Stario, titled “Proses Kreasi dan Representasi Budaya dalam Karya-karya Bio-Art Kelompok House of Natural Fibre (HoNF) dan Syaiful Aulia Garibaldi.” Eighteen S3 PSPSR UGM students attended this two-hour session. Feedback from the students who attended today was very constructive, and they seemed more enthusiastic to share their experiences and knowledge. The next Rabu Wagen Forum is scheduled to take place on August 20, 2025, featuring two speakers from S3 PSPSR UGM.

This Rabu Wagen Forum aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education) by fostering peer learning, enhancing research skills, and supporting an inclusive academic environment for doctoral students. It also contributes to SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by strengthening academic collaboration and building a knowledge-sharing culture within the program. (Hajar Aznam)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

During the three-day dissertation boot camp session at Puri Asri Resort, Magelang, held from June 27 to 29, 2025, the program team conducted a monitoring session to assess the study progress of PhD students in the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Study Program. Each student is given a specific space and time to discuss their studies with promoters and co-promoters. There was also a sharing session where each student was asked to share their current stage of study. This session was practical because friends from the same study program could also observe the process.

Dr. Budi Irawanto, as the head of the study program, also held a sharing session regarding writer’s block and how to overcome it. This sharing knowledge session has helped the difficulties faced by students who are currently in the writing process. Dr Budi also provided students with time to ask questions or share the problems they faced and the latest status of their research, allowing them to discuss these topics together. Through these monitoring activities, students gain valuable insights and manage to update their progress in their studies. Overall, the participants who attended appreciated this monitoring session because it helped them unravel the problems they faced and allowed them to continue their research.

Thank you to all the promoters and co-promoters who generously shared their time and knowledge throughout the monitoring session to guide the students in achieving their study goals. This dissertation boot camp aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education) by enhancing the academic guidance and research capacity of doctoral students, and supports SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through collaborative engagement between students, promoters, and co-promoters in advancing scholarly progress. (Hajar Aznam)

From June 27th to 29th, the Dissertation Boot Camp event took place at Puri Asri Resort, Magelang. The event commenced with a welcoming speech and an introduction to the Dissertation Boot Camp program by Dr. Budi Irawanto, Head of the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Doctoral Study Program (PSPSR) at the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada. A total of 21 PSPSR students have participated in this program. One of the purposes of this activity is to provide a clearer picture of the roadmap for S3 PSPSR students, in addition to being a space to expedite the dissertation completion process and enhance students’ knowledge and skills in writing dissertations. A forum session was also implemented to share experiences among S3 PSPSR students during the dissertation writing process, aiming to increase students’ motivation and self-confidence in writing dissertations.

The activity agenda for the three-day boot camp includes monitoring and evaluating the progress of students’ research. Also scheduled is an intensive monitoring session with promoters and co-promoters. Students must also undertake independent work in accordance with their respective study progress. The target achievement of this program is for students to understand the academic roadmap. It is also expected that students have a clear timeline to complete the dissertation writing. Students should be able to complete the writing task recommended by the promoter or according to the current conditions (draft proposal, literature review, journal article, dissertation chapter). It is also expected that students have strong motivation and a clear direction to complete the dissertation. The Boot Camp program, initiated by PSPSR last semester, was held for the first time and has since become a model for other studies.

This year’s boot camp session was organised for the second time by the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Doctoral Study Program, Postgraduate School, Universitas Gadjah Mada. It is hoped that the program can be carried out again in the next semester, as it has received a positive response from students who gave feedback that it is very effective and has had a significant impact on them. The Dissertation Boot Camp organized by the PSPSR Doctoral Program aligns with the goals of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) by enhancing the quality and accelerating the completion of doctoral studies, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through active collaboration among students, promoters, co-promoters, and higher education institutions. (Hajar Aznam)

 

 

On June 27th, the first day of the boot camp, a presentation session was held by the Academic Administration Unit of the Graduate School, Universitas Gadjah Mada, for the students. The presenter for this session was Ms. Winahyuning Cahyani from the Academic Administration Department. The event began with an explanation of the Doctoral Program schedule and study plan. After the pandemic, there would be no more open exams (ujian tertutup), and students would proceed directly to graduation. She also explained the stages of the S3 study plan and outlined the actions to be taken in each stage. Next, Ms. Winahyuning explained the details of the Comprehensive Exam, and students were advised not to delay in registering for it.

She also explained the initial stage study evaluation and reminded the students of the deadline for passing the comprehensive exam. Because this comprehensive exam is the initial stage that students will take, Ms. Winahyuning emphasised the crucial things that need to be done well during each stage in the S3 program. Next was an explanation of Seminar Results 1, where students must obtain a minimum of 25% of their dissertation research results. For Seminar Results 2, students must obtain a minimum of 75% on the dissertation research results. It is further explained that students are advised to start publishing papers after completing the comprehensive test. Then she explained about the final study evaluation and the assessment team. Ms. Winahyuning also reminded the students to have a direct discussion with the promoter team or the head of the program related to the journal that coincides with the publication’s delivery. 

Next, the qualifications for the closed test are also shared, along with a complete explanation of the closed test session and its relation to Judisium and S3 Graduation, which typically take place in January, April, July, and October. At the end of the session, Ms. Winahyuning asked students to pay attention to the registration every semester related to UKT payment and KRS. Ensure that the TPA and TOEFL have been completed in advance, if they have not been completed before the comprehensive test. Ensure the logbook is filled. Should apply for an extension of studies towards semester 9 (at the end of semester 8) for related students.

Must carry out consultation with the promoter team or the head of the program for international journal recommendations. Students are also reminded to activate supervision notes in Simaster. This informative session, which lasted almost 2 hours, had a significant impact on students in identifying the problems they faced related to administration and how to overcome them. Through this session, students can also create a checklist to ensure that all the requirements for each stage of their study plan have been implemented correctly. During the session, it was observed that the students focused on and reflected on their current academic status, including what they had been through, as well as their progress towards the final session and graduation. The Dissertation Boot Camp supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 on Quality Education by strengthening the academic capacity of doctoral students, and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals through collaboration among students, lecturers, and academic administrative units. (Hajar Aznam)

Yogyakarta, June 16, 2025 – The Graduate Program in Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) hosted a sharing session with visual artist Natasha Tontey. This event comprised a segment of the Visual Arts, Design, and Media Arts Studies course, which Dr. Rr. Paramitha Dyah Fitriasari S., Ant., M.Hum., teaches. The activity took place on Monday, June 16, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM WIB, in Room 407 of the UGM Graduate Building.

Under the theme “World-Building through Peculiar Pleasures: Kitsch, Autophagia, and Ancestral Ghost,” Natasha Tontey invited participants to delve into her artistic practice. This practice roots itself in the imagination of alternative worlds, collective trauma, and marginalized cultural experiences. She explained that the concept of world-building in her work does not merely involve creating narrative worlds, but rather a complex symbolic and spiritual world with a system of meaning derived from local roots.

Natasha Tontey shared her creative process in developing works such as Primate Visions: Macaque Macabre and The Order of Autophagia. Through these works, she explored the relationship between trauma, ancestral heritage, and unusual visual pleasures. She employed a striking and kitsch visual approach, utilizing sharp colors, inexpensive items, and a “tacky” aesthetic. She leverages this strategy as a method to address intergenerational wounds and open a speculative interpretive space for history and identity.

According to Tontey, kitsch is not merely a sentimental aesthetic element. She transforms it into a tool for deconstructing dominant narratives and elevating the experiences of marginalized groups. Thus, kitsch functions as a strategy for cultural critique, simultaneously serving as a tool for healing and speculation for a more inclusive future.

Tontey also explained the concept of autophagia, or “self-eating,” as a metaphor for the destruction-construction process within her artistic practice. Through this approach, she explores how processes of body, identity, and culture can recreate themselves reflectively and critically. Furthermore, she presented the ancestral ghost as a symbol of collective trauma, spiritual power, and a past legacy that remains present and influences the contemporary world.

The ensuing lively discussion covered various important topics. Participants discussed strategies for constructing meaningful visual narratives, utilizing kitsch as a method of empowerment, and the role of art as a space for alternative speculation amidst ecological and socio-cultural crises.

This activity significantly contributes to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Firstly, it supports SDG 4 (Quality Education) by providing critical arts and culture-based learning. Secondly, by highlighting the voices of marginalized groups, this discussion aligns with SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Finally, through preserving cultural memory and local spirituality in contemporary art, the activity contributes to SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

This sharing session provided an important space for students to understand art more deeply. They learned that art is not merely a form of visual expression; instead, it acts as a medium for shaping knowledge, voicing cultural resistance, and imagining a more just and inclusive future. (IP)

 

 

 

On Monday, June 2, 2025, the Doctoral Program in Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR), Graduate School UGM organized a discussion held in Room 407 of the Graduate School building. This activity was part of a broader initiative to strengthen the academic atmosphere by promoting cross-cultural interaction and fostering international collaboration. The event featured Dr. Christopher J. Miller, a scholar and musician from Cornell University, United States, as the speaker. His interests and activities revolve around two points of focus: experimental music, and the music of Indonesia, especially Central Javanese gamelan. His presence brought an important international dimension to the development of scholarly discourse in the field of arts, particularly in music.

The discussion began at 10:00 AM and concluded at 1:00 PM. It was attended by doctoral students from the PSPSR program with enthusiastic participation. The attendees were Agustinus Sani Aryanto, Agustinus Paulus Umbu Tali, Supriando, and Laila Okta Triani. The discussion covered a range of topics, including participant introductions, reflections on academic journeys and the stages of doctoral study, as well as in-depth exploration of each student’s dissertation research concepts and directions.

Dr. Chris provided critical, reflective, and constructive responses to the presentations, encouraging students to adopt more open and innovative approaches in their research on music studies. The discussion unfolded in an interactive, open, and dialogic atmosphere, creating a collaborative learning space and enriching interdisciplinary perspectives.

This activity exemplifies PSPSR’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) through the enhancement of higher education quality, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by facilitating international academic cooperation and knowledge exchange. (LO)

 

The Master’s Program in Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies, Graduate School, held a Guest Lecture entitled “Glocalization and Cultural Identity” on Monday, May 26, 2025, from 13:00 to 15:00 WIB. The event took place in Room 407, 4th Floor of the Graduate School building and featured Prof. Dr. Ignatius Bambang Sugiharto, a distinguished scholar and cultural thinker in Indonesia.

Open to the public, the event received an enthusiastic response from participants, filling the venue to full capacity. In his opening remarks, Prof. Bambang expressed his appreciation for the active engagement of the attendees, which reflected a deep interest in the topic discussed.

The event began with a welcome speech by the Head of the Study Program, Dr. Rr. Paramitha Dyah Fitriasari, S.Ant., M.Hum., followed by Agustinus Paulus Umbu Tali, M.A., who acted as the Master of Ceremony. The lecture continued with Prof. Bambang’s presentation, in which he emphasized that glocalization—the interaction between global and local cultures—has shaped increasingly fluid and complex cultural dynamics. Culture, he argued, should no longer be seen as static and exclusive, but as an open and evolving process shaped by exchange, translation, and cross-cultural reinterpretation.

Prof. Bambang further highlighted that globalization not only facilitates the emergence of more inclusive identities but also presents serious challenges, including growing social inequality and the dominance of global narratives that can undermine the integrity of local cultures. He urged participants not to adopt a defensive stance, but instead to reinforce their commitment to local culture through creative exploration, critical reflection, and cross-cultural collaboration.

In this context, culture is understood as a contested space of meaning and power, in which social actors contribute to shaping evolving ways of life and value systems. Reflective and collaborative cultural activism, he argued, is essential for fostering a more just and civilized global society.

Following the lecture, the event continued with an interactive discussion session. Participants showed high levels of enthusiasm, raising critical questions that enriched the discussion until the session’s conclusion. The atmosphere was vibrant and intellectually stimulating. The event concluded with a group photo session, marking the end of a productive and insightful academic gathering.

This discussion directly supports the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), particularly in advancing cultural literacy and safeguarding local cultural heritage in the face of globalization. (AHP)

The art performance “Performing Enchantment,” initiated by a collaboration between alumni and students of the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR) Program at the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), successfully garnered widespread appreciation from the audience at the UGM Innovation and Creativity Arena (GIK). This event manifested Indonesia’s rich culture by presenting traditional to contemporary arrangements and inviting appreciation from diverse art enthusiasts, particularly the extended family of PSPSR UGM.

“Performing Enchantment” featured a fusion of musical art, movement, and narration. The Reog performance, which opened the event, innovatively presented itself indoors, effectively creating a dramatic and energetic atmosphere. The audience’s roaring cheers greeted each scene, demonstrating the strong appeal of this traditional art form, even when presented in an unconventional format. Enthusiastic applause from the extended family of PSPSR UGM served as tangible evidence of high public appreciation.

The Gendér music segment, performed by Ketawang Ganda Mastuti (Master’s student of PSPSR) and Dr. Rr. Paramitha Dyah Fitriasari, S.Ant., M.Hum. (Head of the PSPSR Study Program), who also delivered a welcoming speech accompanied by Gendér music and dance, also received a positive response. The Light Orchestra of PSPSR UGM, a collaboration of alumni and students, further presented a repertoire of songs from various regions of Indonesia, reflecting the spirit of multiculturalism. The audience’s participation in singing regional songs strengthened the atmosphere of togetherness.

The extended family of Lono Simatupang also captivated and moved the public when they performed the manortor together at GIK UGM. Sopandu Manurung (Master’s alumnus of PSPSR) stated, “This manortor is an adapted celebration; in this context, it is a celebration for Pak Lono as a form of joy and gratitude.” The focus on public appreciation became the central theme of “Performing Enchantment,” inviting the audience to interact and feel an emotional connection. Positive comments described a “mixed” experience rich in emotion, a profound sense of being “impressed” and “touched.” According to Peloggia Suparman (Master’s alumnus of PSPSR UGM) and Iwan Agastya (MC with Peloggia in Performing Enchantment), the event left a deep impression, especially for the extended family of PSPSR, as an opportunity to reminisce, evident when the performances of Om Jarang Pulang and Samba Sunda encouraged the audience to dance and enjoy the camaraderie. Over 100 performers manipulated space, movement, and music, creating a captivating “enchantment.”

Furthermore, “Performing Enchantment” holds relevance to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, this event supports SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by preserving cultural heritage. The revitalization and reinterpretation of traditional arts in this event contribute to preserving culture as an asset for sustainable urban and community development. The role of higher education institutions such as UGM, through PSPSR, in preserving and developing performing arts also aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education), which emphasizes the contribution of culture to sustainable development. (IP)

Photo 1. Reog Performance Inside the GIK UGM Building Elicited Cheers from the Audience.

 

Photo 2. Manortor Dance by the Extended Family of Lono Simatupang.

 

Photo 3. Collaboration Performance by the Head of the PSPSR UGM Study Program, Dr. Rr. Paramitha Dyah Fitriasari, S.Ant., M.A., Accompanied by Gender Music by Ketawang Ganda Mastuti, Master’s Student of PSPSR UGM.

 

Photo 4. Performance of “Om Jarang Pulang”.

 

Photo 5. Lecturers, Alumni, and the Extended Family of PSPSR UGM Dancing and Singing Together During the Om Jarang Pulang Performance.

 

Photo 6. Lecturers, Alumni, and the Extended Family of PSPSR UGM Dancing and Singing Together During theSamba Sunda Performance.

 

Syawalan Seni was a celebration of two milestones: the 34th anniversary of the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies program at the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada, and the 36 years of dedication by the beloved lecturer, G. R. Lono Lastoro Simatupang. Held over two days—8 and 9 May 2025—at GIK UGM, the event carried the theme “Performing Enchantment”, bringing together a diverse lineup of performers including Samba Sunda, the PSPSR Orchestra, and OM Jarang Pulang.

OM Jarang Pulang (OMJP) is a dangdut band formed by alumni and students of the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies program. The current ensemble features Michael H. B. Raditya (percussion), Ribeth Nurvijayanto (keys), Agus Umbu (keys), Hata Nugraha (bass), Thalita Nur Fadillah (drums), Anbie Haldini (tambourine), Yuki Raudhul Rizky (guitar), and vocalists Selin Rimesu and Ratna Wulan Sari. Since its formation in 2018, OMJP has become known for its vibrant mix of dangdut, koplo, and ambyar, and has released three original tracks: “Baper,” “Udarasa,” and “Sajerone Segara Sajembare Samudera.”

Taking the spotlight at 10 PM, OMJP delivered four crowd-favorite songs: “Kopi Dangdut”, “Dumes”, “Pamer Bojo”, and “Koyo Jogja Istimewa.” From the first beat, they had the audience dancing and singing along. As the night reached its joyful climax, the band added a heartwarming surprise—inviting the audience to join in singing a lyric: “Pak Lono is so special,” cleverly swapped from the original “You are so special” (or “Koe ncen Istimewa”). The moment was magical. The crowd sang with delight, and Pak Lono smiled warmly from the back row, visibly moved by the spontaneous tribute.

The involvement of various parties in the Syawalan Seni event, including OM Jarang Pulang (OMJP), reflects PSPSR UGM’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). (HB)

 

On Thursday, May 8, 2025, the Graduate Program in Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) hosted the PSPSR Alumni Gathering: Reconnecting Bonds, Sharing Aspirations.

Held at the 5th-floor Auditorium of the UGM Graduate School, the event was warmly attended by PSPSR students, lecturers, and alumni. The session featured contributions from Dr. Rr. Paramitha Dyah Fitriasari, M.Hum., Dr. Aris Setiawan, S.Sn., M.Sn., and Karen Hardini, M.A., with Heni Siswantari, M.A. serving as moderator.

Dr. Paramitha opened the discussion by presenting the evolution of the PSPSR curriculum over the years. Karen Hardini, M.A. then delivered a compelling reflection titled “Artistic Works and Their Surroundings”, sharing her project experience in Kudus and its relevance to the curriculum she encountered during her time at PSPSR.

The discussion continued with a lively and humorous session by Dr. Aris Setiawan, S.Sn., M.Sn., who fondly recalled the memorable expressions of Dr. G.R. Lono Lastoro Simatupang, M.A., such as his iconic “em… em em…” – greeted with enthusiastic applause from the audience. Dr. Aris emphasized the importance of returning research results to society and fostering reciprocal engagement, turning academic work into a shared space for connection and contribution.

Many attendees, especially alumni and students, reflected on their mentoring experiences with Dr. G.R. Lono Lastoro Simatupang, M.A., which left a lasting impression throughout their academic journey. Informally, students, lecturers, and alumni mingled, sharing warm conversations and often gravitating towards friends from their cohort years.

The discussion closed with reflections from alumni who have become pioneers in their academic fields, highlighting how their experiences at PSPSR equipped them with the adaptability and expertise needed in new professional environments. This provided critical insights for future curriculum development aimed at fostering social relevance and impact.

The event concluded with expressions of gratitude, group photos, and a friendly gathering that reinforced connections within the PSPSR community. This activity is also aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) within the academic community. (Ony Setyawan)