On Wednesday, May 21, 2025, a field study program was conducted by the Visual Arts, Design, and Media Arts Criticism course, mentored by Dr. Suwarno Wisetrotomo. The activity took place at the Jogja Art+Books Festival 2025 (JABFEST), located at The Ratan, Jalan Ringroad Selatan No. 93, Panggungharjo, Sewon, Bantul, Yogyakarta. This year, JABFEST adopted the theme “Kereta Api yang Berangkat Pagi Hari: 82 Tahun Kuntowijoyo” (The Train Departing in the Morning: 82 Years of Kuntowijoyo). The festival featured various programs, including art exhibitions, book discussions, artist talks, a book bazaar, and other related events.

During this visit, students from the Visual Arts, Design, and Media Arts Criticism course of the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR) Program, Universitas Gadjah Mada, observed the art exhibition at The Ratan gallery. The exhibition showcased works by renowned artists such as Nasirun, Enka Komariah, Pupuk Daru Purnomo, Wedhar Riyadi, and others. Class participants critically analyzed the artworks from diverse perspectives, consistent with their individual academic backgrounds. The observation also encompassed how each artwork responded to the theme “Kereta Api yang Berangkat Pagi Hari: 82 Tahun Kuntowijoyo,” as well as the implications of a literary archaeology approach in contemporary art that informed the artists’ creative processes.

Subsequently, following the observation in the exhibition space, the students and Dr. Suwarno Wisetrotomo continued the activity with a discussion session involving artist Pupuk Daru Purnomo. This discussion focused on the artist’s creative process in producing his work, particularly in the context of Pupuk Daru Purnomo’s pieces that were recreated with considerations of different spaces and times of execution. One of the exhibited works, for instance, featured a sketch reproduced years after the artist had returned from the original location. Pupuk Daru Purnomo explained, “There are memories that linger and are quite impactful, when I draw about a specific location or moment I experienced. Even though redrawing it feels different, the memory I felt remains the same.”

Dr. Suwarno Wisetrotomo also elucidated Pupuk Daru Purnomo’s artistic journey, emphasizing that changes or differences in an artist’s creative process are natural. He highlighted that the creative process can continue to be internalized and expressed in artworks, regardless of material differences. Nevertheless, the unique characteristics of each artist remain the essence that strengthens the identity of their work.

This field study significantly contributes to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Firstly, it supports SDG 4: Quality Education, by providing innovative out-of-classroom learning experiences that enrich students’ understanding through direct interaction with artworks and professional artists. Secondly, it indirectly contributes to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by supporting the art ecosystem and creative economy, which promotes decent work for artists and economic growth. Finally, this activity aligns with SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, as it enriches the cultural life of the city and promotes cultural inclusion and identity through art. (IP)

The opening of the Re.uni(que): Weaving Charms, Knitting Encounters exhibition and Syawalan Seni on Thursday, 8 May 2025, at the UGM Graduate School Building, highlighted the active role of students from the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies Program (PSPSR), Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). This event was part of the 34th anniversary of PSPSR and the commemoration of Dr. Gabriel Roosmargo Lono Lastoro Simatupang, M.A.’s 36 years of academic dedication.

PSPSR students from both master’s and doctoral levels were intensively involved in the preparation and execution of the event. In the week leading up to the opening, students worked together as committee members, taking responsibility for exhibition layout, artwork installation, logistics, guest management, and documentation. This collaboration strengthened student solidarity and provided valuable experience in art event management.

On the opening day, students took the lead in welcoming guests, managing registration, and ensuring the smooth flow of the event. Several students served as ushers and guides, assisting visitors throughout the exhibition and facilitating transitions to the Syawalan session. Their presence contributed to the warm and inclusive atmosphere of the event.

In addition, several PSPSR students participated as exhibiting artists, presenting their own works, including paintings, installations, and mixed media. The main highlights were batik artworks and a stone carving created by students as commemorative pieces for this historic Syawalan Seni. These works were specially designed as symbols of unity and reminders of this important moment in PSPSR’s journey.

Students also played a role as event accompanists through the Gamelan Cokekan music ensemble, consisting of students and alumni. Their performance enhanced the sense of togetherness and added artistic value to the opening procession and Syawalan session.

Muhamad Daffa Pradana, one of the PSPSR students, stated, “Being involved as both a committee member and an exhibition participant was a highly valuable learning experience. I learned about event planning, teamwork, and had the opportunity to present my work to the public.” Anindita Chalista added, “This event strengthened the bonds among students and created opportunities for closer interaction with alumni and lecturers.”

The active participation of PSPSR students in the opening of Re.uni(que) and Syawalan Seni supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities – Cultural Preservation), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals – Inclusive Networking within the campus environment). The event concluded with a guided exhibition tour, where students continued to assist guests and share information about the displayed works. (Onny Setyawan)

The Performing Enchantment event on May 9, 2025, at Gelanggang Inovasi dan Kreativitas UGM was not only a showcase of artistic excellence, but also a night filled with deep emotional resonance for the audience.

From the opening Reog Ponorogo performance, the audience was immediately captivated. Cheers and applause filled the hall as dynamic movements and spirited music set the tone for the evening.  

“The energy was contagious. I was drawn into the atmosphere from the very beginning,” said Febry Anugerah, one of the audience members.

The Batak thanksgiving ritual, involving Dr. Lono Simatupang and his family, moved many to tears. The symbolic circle dance evoked a sense of unity and gratitude, with many expressing admiration for the warmth of family and the traditions displayed.  

“It was truly touching to witness such a meaningful family moment on stage,” shared Yoowono Nur, another attendee.

Throughout the night, audience engagement only grew stronger. The orchestral performance by alumni and students was met with enthusiastic applause, while the Randai and PSPSR Jingle segments captivated the crowd with their unique cultural flair. The collaboration between Landung Simatupang, Dr. Lono, and Asriuni Pradipta also received heartfelt appreciation, with many acknowledging the warmth and uniqueness of the family performance.

The peak of excitement arrived when Orkes Melayu Jarang Pulang took the stage, with energetic dangdut rhythms prompting the audience to dance and sing along. The event concluded with a standing ovation for Sambasunda ISBI Bandung, a testament to the profound emotional impact of the evening.  

“As an art enthusiast, I feel that Performing Enchantment truly provided an immersive cultural experience that inspires pride,” said Raras, an art enthusiast present that night.

Performing Enchantment 2025 was more than just a show-it was a profound experience for the audience, building emotional connections and cultural pride. The event aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), through its promotion of inclusive cultural participation. (YMRL) 

The Performing Enchantment event on May 9, 2025, at Gelanggang Inovasi dan Kreativitas UGM became a vibrant stage for celebrating Indonesia’s cultural diversity. an event held by the Graduate Program in Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR) UGM, the event showcased the rich traditions of various regions, uniting different identities in a night full of harmony.

From the outset, the audience was greeted by the grandeur of Reog Ponorogo, an energetic cultural icon from East Java. The atmosphere then shifted to a solemn mood during the Batak thanksgiving ritual, Manjalo Tuani Gondang, performed meaningfully by Dr. Lono Simatupang and his family. This Batak tradition, rich in family values and gratitude, demonstrated how performing arts can bridge cultures.

The diversity continued with the PSPSR Light Orchestra’s orchestral renditions of Indonesian classics, blending generations and backgrounds. The night was further enlivened by Randai from Minangkabau, presenting the unique narratives and movements of West Sumatra. The lively performance of Orkes Melayu Jarang Pulang brought the audience together in celebration, highlighting the inclusivity of popular culture within the academic stage.

The evening’s celebration of diversity culminated with Sambasunda from ISBI Bandung, fusing traditional Sundanese instruments with contemporary touches. Each segment not only showcased the uniqueness of its respective culture but also illustrated how dialogue and collaboration can strengthen unity in diversity.

This event proved that Performing Enchantment was more than entertainment; it was a space for education and appreciation of Indonesia’s cultural wealth. By highlighting diversity, the event also supported the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), especially in terms of cultural preservation and inclusive education. (Dito)

A warm and enthusiastic atmosphere filled the UGM Graduate School Building on May 8, 2025, as the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR) Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) officially opened the Re.uni(que): Weaving Charms, Knitting Encounters exhibition. The visual documentation on this first day captured important moments, interactions, and expressions from participants and guests in this celebration of art and togetherness.

The morning began with a coffee morning session, providing a warm space for guests, students, lecturers, alumni, and artists to greet each other and share stories. The camera captured the friendly atmosphere, cups of coffee, and laughter that marked the meaningful start of the day.

Indah Ayu Fitria, M.A., opened the event as the master of ceremonies, inviting all attendees to follow the main agenda. This highly anticipated moment was well documented, showing the participants’ enthusiasm.

Dr. Rr. Paramitha Dyah Fitriasari, M.Hum., Head of the PSPSR Master’s Program, delivered the opening remarks, highlighting the importance of this exhibition as part of the 34th Anniversary of PSPSR and 36 years of the academic journey of Dr. Gabriel Roosmargo Lono Lastoro Simatupang, M.A. “This exhibition is not just a platform to present creative works, but also a reunion space for our academic and arts community,” she said. The camera captured warm gestures and proud expressions from the Program Head, artists, and invited guests.

The following speech was delivered by Dr. Nadiyah Tunnikmah, M.A., as the exhibition curator, who explained the curatorial concept and the selection process of works representing the theme of weaving charms and encounters. The attentive expressions of the audience were documented, marking appreciation for the creative process behind this exhibition.

The event peaked with the symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony by Prof. Dr. Widyanto Dwi Nugroho, S.Hut., M.Agr., Vice Dean for Academic, Student Affairs, and Cooperation. This moment became the main visual highlight, where Prof. Widyanto, accompanied by the Program Head and curator, was greeted with applause from all attendees. The camera captured emotional and joyful expressions, emphasizing the significance of this moment for the PSPSR community.

After the opening, guests and participants were invited to tour the exhibition. The visual documentation focused on dynamic interactions between artists, students, and visitors enjoying a range of works, from paintings and installations to mixed media. Every corner of the exhibition space witnessed the meeting of ideas, warm discussions, and reflective moments, all recorded in evocative photographs.

Dr. Gabriel Roosmargo Lono Lastoro Simatupang, M.A., as the jubilarian, was seen having warm discussions with the Program Head, Vice Rector, curator, and exhibition participants. The camera captured their togetherness, showing the spirit of collaboration and kinship that characterizes PSPSR.

Several quotes from participants enriched the visual narrative of the day. “Seeing these works in person and meeting the artists is truly inspiring,” said a student. Another guest added, “This exhibition space feels alive with creativity and meaningful encounters.”

The opening of Re.uni(que) was not only a celebration of art, but also a cross-generational gathering that strengthened networks and cultural appreciation. Through careful visual documentation, every moment was recorded as part of PSPSR UGM’s collective journey in supporting quality education, inclusivity, and cultural sustainability, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) no.4 (Quality Education) and no.17 (Partnerships for the Goals)

Yogyakarta, May 8, 2025 – The Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies Program (PSPSR), Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), officially opened the Re.uni(que): Menganyam Pesona, Merajut Perjumpaan. at the UGM Graduate School Building. This event brought together students, alumni, and lecturers, highlighting PSPSR’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through art and intergenerational collaboration.

Dr. Nadiyah Tunnikmah, M.A., as the curator, emphasized that the exhibition was not merely about displaying artworks, but about creating a space for dialogue and social reflection. “Each piece was selected to represent the collective journey of the PSPSR community. We want visitors to experience the meaning of encounters, collaboration, and diversity, which are the strengths of art and support the inclusivity principle of the SDGs,” Dr. Nadiyah explained.

The exhibition featured a variety of works, from paintings and installations to batik and stone carvings. Interactions between artists and visitors sparked discussions on education, equality, cultural preservation, and environmental issues. This curatorial concept aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), as the involvement of students, alumni, and lecturers strengthens participatory education and lifelong learning practices.

Head of PSPSR, Dr. Rr. Paramitha Dyah Fitriasari, M.Hum., stated in her remarks, “This exhibition is a tangible form of synergy within our academic and arts community. Through intergenerational collaboration, we aim to continuously improve the quality of education and expand the social impact of PSPSR, in line with the SDGs vision.” She also highlighted the importance of feedback from alumni and guests as part of the program’s development.

After the opening, guests were invited to tour the exhibition, engage with the artists, and discuss the works on display. The warm and enthusiastic atmosphere reflected the strong network and cultural appreciation within the PSPSR community.

The Re.uni(que) exhibition proves that arts education at PSPSR UGM is not only focused on academic achievement, but also on character building, social values, and real contributions to sustainable development. (Dito)

Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR) Program, the Graduate School of Universitas Gadjah Mada, hosted a sharing session titled “Research Methods (in the Study of) the Arts,” featuring Michael HB Raditya, M.A., Ph.D (cand.) as the speaker. The event took place on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Room 407, 4th Floor, Graduate School UGM, starting at 9:00 AM.

Currently pursuing his doctoral studies at the University of Melbourne, Michael HB Raditya discussed methodological shifts in arts research, drawing from his ongoing study on dangdut, an Indonesian popular music genre. He highlighted the increasing role of digital technology and the internet in shaping contemporary research practices, especially through the use of big data and internet-based data collection.

One of the key approaches he presented involves conducting text analysis on online data obtained via web scraping methods. This allows researchers to access and analyze large volumes of data, blending both qualitative and quantitative strategies. Michael emphasized the importance of considering to what extent such data can “explain” a phenomenon, and whether relying on a single method is sufficient or should be complemented by other approaches.

He also addressed the limitations of multi-sited ethnography, particularly when inconsistencies emerge across sites dealing with the same type of data. To respond to this issue, he proposed employing a neo-Kulan ethnography approach, which aims to overcome such methodological gaps. In his research on dangdut, Michael combines multiple methods in an elaborative way, demonstrating the value of methodological flexibility in the study of the arts.

The session offered fresh perspectives for students and researchers on how research methods are evolving alongside technological developments. The engaging discussion underscored the need for scholars to be open to exploring emerging approaches in order to enrich the field of arts research in Indonesia. This event also reflects PSPSR’s commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). (AU-CG)

On April 23, 2025, an engaging academic discussion was held by Taman Budaya Yogyakarta, titled “Unpacking the Dancer’s Body (Practice as Research/PaR)”. The event featured several notable speakers, including Dr. Bambang Pujasworo, a faculty member of the Graduate Program in Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR) UGM, Galih Prakasiwi, M.A., an alumnus of PSPSR UGM who served as the main discussant, and Heni Siswantari, S.Pd., M.A., a Ph.D. candidate at PSPSR UGM, who acted as the moderator.

The discussion lasted approximately 2.5 hours and was attended by 70 participants. In his opening remarks, Galih emphasized that Practice as Research (PaR) began to gain traction in the 1990s, positioning artistic practice as a primary method for generating knowledge. This paradigm shift recognizes the creative process itself as a legitimate and systematic form of research.

Dr. Bambang, often referred to as Pak Bambang, elaborated that the body’s lived experience serves as a resource not merely through practice, but through praxis—a conscious, reflective engagement. Consequently, not all dance practices can be categorized as research. He highlighted that PaR is a creative act that synthesizes theoretical awareness and critical reflection, enabling the production of new knowledge.

In conclusion, the moderator summarized that by placing artistic practice at the core of the research process, PaR offers artists a pathway to contribute to scholarly knowledge production through their creative work.

This dialogue sparked critical reflection among speakers and participants from diverse academic backgrounds. Art was discussed not only as the product of creativity, but also as a methodological process of knowledge discovery. One participant from the Center for Religious and Cross-cultural Studies (CRCS) UGM noted that while PaR is still relatively underdeveloped in Indonesia, it holds great potential for future academic development.

Such an approach aligns closely with PSPSR’s interdisciplinary character, which views art not merely as an object of study, but also as a subject of inquiry. The scientific engagement with creative work through PaR represents one of the central methodological discourses frequently promoted and discussed within PSPSR. The event reflects a commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting quality education and fostering cross-disciplinary partnerships in knowledge production. (HS)

On May 9, 2025, the Graduate Program in Performing and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) held Performing Enchantment at the Gelanggang Inovasi dan Kreativitas UGM, presenting a rich evening of diverse expressions in the performing arts.

From the outset, the spatial arrangement stood out. Instead of using the conventional stage, the performance area was placed in front of it, giving performers the freedom to move and create dynamic floor patterns. The Reog Ponorogo musicians were positioned beneath the left-side stands, near the entrance and the audience, producing a surround sound effect that felt immersive and immediate.

Each segment—from Reog Ponorogo, Manjalo Tuani Gondang, PSPSR Light Orchestra, Randai, to New Orkes Jarang Pulang and Sambasunda—was presented with distinct artistic direction. Thoughtful lighting enhanced the atmosphere and emotions of each act, serving as a visual element that supported the storytelling.

Audience engagement was a key feature of Performing Enchantment. Nearly every segment invited the audience to respond, participate, or connect emotionally, creating a sense of shared experience between performers and spectators. This approach built bridges between traditional performances and contemporary settings, showing how performing arts can remain engaging and meaningful.

The evening concluded with a joyful communal dance led by Sambasunda, bringing together PSPSR students, lecturers, and alumni on stage. Beyond the performances, the event reflected PSPSR’s ongoing commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in advancing quality education (SDG 4), preserving cultural heritage, and strengthening academic and community partnerships (SDG 11 and 17). (OS)

On May 9, 2025, the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies Program (PSPSR) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) showcased the power of artistic collaboration at the Performing Enchantment event, held at the Gelanggang Inovasi dan Kreativitas UGM. The event was the culmination of a series of celebrations marking 36 years of Lono Simatupang’s academic contributions and 34 years of the PSPSR Program at UGM.

The event’s core was its seamless collaboration among artists, academics, alumni, students, and families. The opening Reog Ponorogo performance set the tone, bringing together local Reog artists and PSPSR’s creative team to blend tradition with fresh artistic direction.

A highlight of the evening was the Batak thanksgiving ritual during Manjalo Tuani Gondang, featuring Dr. Lono Simatupang and his family. This segment exemplified the integration of family, tradition, and academic community, as musicians, dancers, and family members formed a circle symbolizing unity and gratitude.

Collaboration extended beyond the family. The Light Orchestra PSPSR united alumni and students to perform orchestral arrangements of Indonesian classics, demonstrating intergenerational teamwork and mutual respect. The Randai performance by ISI Padangpanjang and the PSPSR Jingle by ISI Yogyakarta further illustrated inter-institutional cooperation, enriching the artistic dialogue.

A special moment was the intergenerational performance by Landung Simatupang, Dr. Lono’s brother, joined by Dr. Lono and Asriuni Pradipta, a PSPSR student and niece. Their collaboration merged theater, music, and personal narrative, highlighting the strength of family and academic ties in artistic creation.

The event also featured Orkes Melayu Jarang Pulang, a lively dangdut orchestra involving alumni, students, and young lecturers, and concluded with Sambasunda ISBI Bandung, reinforcing the event’s collaborative spirit.

Performing Enchantment 2025 demonstrated that collaboration is the foundation of innovation and cultural sustainability at PSPSR UGM. The event supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly quality education and cultural preservation. (Hajar Aznam)