Art and Religious Justice: Exploring the Role of Art in Promoting Religious Tolerance in Indonesia

Abstract

In a country as religiously diverse as Indonesia, the potential for art to foster religious tolerance and understanding is immense. This paper investigates the role of art in promoting religious justice by addressing interfaith relations and challenging religious intolerance. By analyzing artworks that address themes of religious harmony, pluralism, and respect for diversity, the study explores how Indonesian artists have contributed to dialogues on religious coexistence. The paper also examines the ways in which art has been used to counteract religious extremism, promote peaceful coexistence among Indonesia’s Muslim, Christian, Hindu, and other religious communities, and address the social injustices faced by minority religious groups. In doing so, it highlights art as an important vehicle for promoting religious tolerance and justice in contemporary Indonesian society.