The Indonesian Art and Justice Review (IAJR) is a peer-reviewed journal that explores the dynamic relationship between art, law, and social justice, focusing specifically on the Indonesian context. Art has long been a powerful vehicle for social change, reflecting societal issues and acting as a catalyst for dialogue, resistance, and transformation. This journal seeks to investigate how art intersects with justice, examining how creative expression can promote, challenge, and reshape legal, social, and cultural narratives in Indonesia. The journal offers a platform for scholarly inquiry into how art, in all its forms—visual arts, performing arts, literature, and digital media—can serve as a tool for social justice. IAJR explores the legal dimensions of artistic expression, including the protection of freedom of speech, intellectual property, and the role of art in advocating for human rights, equality, and justice. It also delves into how art can illuminate issues of injustice, including inequality, discrimination, human rights violations, and environmental degradation, while offering a medium for healing, activism, and empowerment. IAJR seeks to engage with interdisciplinary perspectives, bridging art, law, philosophy, sociology, and political science. It aims to explore both the theoretical and practical dimensions of how art contributes to social justice, offering insights into how the law can support or restrict artistic freedom and how art itself can influence legal and policy reforms.
The Network of Indonesian Legal and Justice Researchers
All writings published in this journal are the personal views of the authors and do not represent the views of this journal or the authors’ affiliated institutions. Authors retain copyrights without any restriction under the license of Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0).
Justice, Memory, and Art: How Indonesia’s Museums and Art Institutions Contribute to National Reconciliation
Museums and art institutions play a crucial role in shaping national memory and contributing to the process of reconciliation, especially in post-conflict societies like Indonesia. This paper explores how Indonesian museums and galleries address historical events such as the 1965 tragedy, the violence of the New Order regime, and the impact of colonialism. By focusing on the role of art in memorialization, the study investigates how these institutions contribute to national conversations about justice, memory, and healing. Through case studies of significant exhibitions, memorials, and public art projects, the paper examines the ethical and political dimensions of representing trauma through art and how such representations contribute to social and political justice. The study ultimately emphasizes the need for art institutions to play an active role in fostering reconciliation and national unity by providing spaces for diverse voices and experiences.
Museums, art institutions, national reconciliation, Indonesia, 1965 tragedy, justice, memory, historical events, healing
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Globalization, Cultural Imperialism, and Justice: The Influence of Western Art on Indonesia’s Artistic Identity
Globalization has led to a heightened exchange of artistic practices and ideas, yet it has also raised concerns about the imposition of Western cultural norms and the erosion of indigenous artistic traditions. This paper examines the impact of globalization and Western art movements on Indonesia’s artistic identity, analyzing how these external influences challenge local artistic practices and cultural values. The study explores the concept of cultural imperialism, considering how the dominance of Western art in global markets may undermine indigenous art forms and create imbalances in cultural representation. By exploring the responses of Indonesian artists and cultural institutions, this paper argues for the importance of cultural justice—ensuring that Indonesian art remains rooted in local traditions while engaging with global trends in a way that does not marginalize indigenous voices.
Globalization, cultural imperialism, Western art, Indonesia, artistic identity, indigenous art, cultural justice, art movements
Art, Trauma, and Justice: Representing Historical Injustices in Indonesia Through Art
Indonesia’s history is marked by significant periods of violence and trauma, including the 1965-66 anti-communist purges, ethnic violence, and the lasting effects of colonialism. This paper critically examines how Indonesian artists use their work to represent these historical injustices, focusing on the intersection of art and collective memory. It explores how visual art serves as a tool for historical reckoning, resistance, and healing, providing a space for marginalized voices to address past atrocities. The study analyzes specific works that engage with the trauma of Indonesia’s history, assessing the role of art in fostering national discourse on justice, reconciliation, and healing. The paper argues that art plays a crucial role in the process of memorialization, bringing visibility to painful histories that continue to shape Indonesia’s social and political landscape.
Trauma, historical injustices, art, Indonesia, 1965-66 purges, collective memory, justice, reconciliation
Public Art, Community Engagement, and Social Justice: Analyzing the Impact of Public Art Installations in Indonesia’s Urban Spaces
Public art projects have increasingly become important tools for social engagement and cultural expression in urban spaces across Indonesia. This paper explores how public art installations in cities like Jakarta and Yogyakarta promote community engagement, social inclusion, and justice, particularly in marginalized or underserved areas. The study examines several prominent public art initiatives, looking at how they address urban issues such as poverty, inequality, and political marginalization. Through a series of case studies, the paper investigates the role of public art in fostering a sense of belonging, challenging social norms, and providing a platform for underrepresented voices in Indonesian society. Ultimately, it highlights the transformative potential of public art as a medium for promoting social justice and inclusion in contemporary urban Indonesia.
Public art, community engagement, social justice, urban spaces, Indonesia, inclusion, marginalized communities, art installations
Art and the Law: Legal Frameworks and Intellectual Property Justice for Indonesian Artists
The protection of intellectual property is a significant issue for artists in Indonesia, where creative work is often exposed to piracy and exploitation due to gaps in legal protections. This paper investigates the legal frameworks available for Indonesian artists, focusing on intellectual property laws, including copyright, patents, and trademarks, and how these laws impact the economic justice and creative freedom of artists. The study examines the effectiveness of Indonesia’s current intellectual property laws in safeguarding the rights of artists, particularly in relation to the commercialization of their work. It also explores how international treaties and local enforcement challenges complicate the ability of artists to assert control over their creations. The paper concludes by discussing potential reforms that could enhance protection for artists and foster a more equitable and supportive environment for creative work.
Intellectual property, copyright, Indonesia, artists, legal frameworks, economic justice, creative freedom, art law
Art and Environmental Justice: The Role of Eco-Art in Raising Awareness About Environmental Degradation in Indonesia
Indonesia’s natural environment has been subject to rapid degradation due to deforestation, pollution, and climate change, leading to a growing demand for environmental justice. This paper examines the role of eco-art in raising awareness about environmental issues in Indonesia and in advocating for sustainability and ecological justice. Focusing on eco-artists who integrate environmental concerns into their works, the study analyzes how art communicates the urgency of addressing issues like habitat destruction, air and water pollution, and climate change. By exploring specific eco-art projects, public exhibitions, and collaborations with environmental organizations, this paper demonstrates how art can mobilize public opinion, influence policy, and foster social and environmental justice movements in Indonesia.
Eco-art, environmental justice, climate change, deforestation, pollution, sustainability, Indonesia, environmental activism
The Politics of Art and Justice: How Indonesian Artists Challenge Corruption Through Satirical Art
In Indonesia, corruption remains a pervasive issue, and artists have often been at the forefront of social and political commentary, using their work to critique the state of governance. This paper explores how Indonesian artists employ satire and humor in their art to challenge government corruption, societal injustices, and political inequities. By examining the techniques, themes, and political messages in satirical works, this study delves into the ethical and legal ramifications of using art as a tool for political critique. The paper also assesses how this form of art contributes to wider conversations on justice, transparency, and accountability in Indonesia, while considering the risks that artists face in expressing dissent in a politically sensitive environment.
Satirical art, corruption, political critique, social justice, freedom of expression, Indonesia, art and politics, resistance
Art, Identity, and Justice: The Role of Art in Shaping the Representation of Ethnic Minorities in Indonesia
Ethnic minorities in Indonesia, such as Chinese-Indonesians, indigenous groups, and other marginalized communities, have long struggled for representation and recognition within the national cultural narrative. This paper investigates the role of art in asserting the identity of these groups and in challenging the stereotypes and stigmas often associated with them. By examining the work of Indonesian artists from ethnic minorities, this study highlights how art becomes a vehicle for cultural justice, allowing these communities to reclaim and reframe their stories, histories, and representations in the public sphere. The paper explores how art challenges hegemonic cultural norms and provides a space for cultural expression, identity formation, and resistance, emphasizing the transformative power of art in promoting ethnic justice.
Ethnic minorities, identity, representation, Indonesian art, cultural justice, indigenous groups, Chinese-Indonesians, art and resistance
Justice for the Displaced: The Role of Art in Representing the Struggles of Communities Affected by Forced Migration in Indonesia
In recent years, forced migration has become an increasingly prominent issue in Indonesia, as people from conflict zones and marginalized communities are displaced within and outside the country. This paper examines how contemporary Indonesian artists use their work to represent the experiences of refugees, internally displaced persons, and marginalized groups, whose struggles often remain underrepresented in mainstream media. It explores the role of art in communicating the emotional, social, and political dimensions of displacement, and how it acts as a form of resistance, healing, and advocacy. Through analyzing specific works of art, exhibitions, and community-based art projects, this study explores the implications of representing displaced communities through art and how these representations contribute to broader conversations about justice, human rights, and social equity in Indonesia.
Forced migration, displaced persons, refugees, Indonesian artists, social justice, representation, human rights, art as resistance
The Ethics of Art Collecting: Examining the Role of Art Dealers and Galleries in the Exploitation of Indonesian Artists
The art market in Indonesia has become a powerful force in the global contemporary art scene, yet this market is often criticized for its ethical shortcomings. This paper examines the power dynamics between art dealers, galleries, and artists in Indonesia, analyzing how commercial interests may exploit artists, particularly those from marginalized or underrepresented communities. It explores how financial and professional gatekeepers in the art world—galleries, auction houses, and dealers—affect artists’ rights, compensation, and long-term success. The study delves into the ethics of art collection, looking at how commercial forces shape the careers of artists and whether the existing system fairly compensates them for their work. By reviewing case studies of artist exploitation and comparing Indonesian practices to those in the global art market, this paper emphasizes the need for greater transparency and fair compensation for artists in Indonesia’s art economy.
Art market, art dealers, exploitation, Indonesian artists, fair compensation, ethics, art galleries, power dynamics
Art and Social Justice: The Role of Street Art in Communicating Protest and Promoting Change in Indonesia
Street art in Indonesia has emerged as a dynamic form of public protest and a tool for promoting social change. This paper examines the role of street art in Indonesia’s political and social landscape, particularly in urban areas such as Jakarta and Yogyakarta. Focusing on the works of graffiti artists, muralists, and other forms of urban art, the study explores how street art addresses pressing social issues, including corruption, poverty, inequality, and political repression. The paper also looks at how street art functions as a vehicle for community engagement, offering marginalized groups a platform for self-expression and resistance. By considering the legal and social ramifications of public art, the paper argues that street art has become an important tool for social justice movements, creating dialogue between the public and the government while challenging the status quo.
Street art, social justice, protest art, urban activism, Indonesia, political resistance, graffiti, murals, inequality
The Role of Art in Promoting Gender Justice: Feminist Art Movements and Women's Empowerment in Indonesia
Feminist art movements in Indonesia have become an important platform for challenging gender norms and advocating for women's rights and empowerment. This paper examines how Indonesian feminist artists have utilized visual arts to address issues such as gender-based violence, reproductive rights, and the underrepresentation of women in the art world. By analyzing key feminist art exhibitions, performances, and the work of individual artists, the paper explores how art serves as a medium for both personal and collective expressions of resistance against patriarchal structures. Furthermore, it investigates how these art movements intersect with broader social justice efforts, empowering women to challenge societal constraints and call for gender equality in Indonesia.
Feminist art, gender justice, women’s empowerment, Indonesia, art movements, gender equality, patriarchy, resistance
Cultural Heritage and Justice: Protecting Indigenous Art Forms in Indonesia’s Rapidly Changing Society
As Indonesia faces the dual pressures of globalization and rapid urbanization, the country’s indigenous art forms are increasingly at risk of being overshadowed or appropriated by external influences. This paper investigates the efforts to preserve and protect indigenous art traditions, such as batik, wayang, and traditional crafts, amidst the forces of cultural homogenization. It explores the role of the government, non-governmental organizations, and indigenous communities in safeguarding these practices while balancing the demands of modernization and tourism. By examining the complexities surrounding intellectual property rights, cultural appropriation, and the commercialization of indigenous art, the study discusses the challenges of achieving cultural justice for indigenous artists and communities in a globalized society.
Cultural heritage, indigenous art, preservation, globalization, tourism, cultural justice, Indonesia, intellectual property
Art as Resistance: The Role of Visual Arts in Indonesia's Struggle for Social and Political Justice
In Indonesia, visual arts have long served as a powerful tool for resistance, challenging state policies, human rights abuses, and social inequalities. This paper critically examines how Indonesian artists have used their work to resist oppression, critique government policies, and highlight issues such as corruption, religious intolerance, and environmental destruction. Drawing from the work of contemporary artists involved in activism, the study analyzes the role of visual art in social movements, and how art becomes a means of protest, solidarity, and a vehicle for social justice. By focusing on specific movements or art forms such as protest art, political murals, and exhibitions, the paper underscores art's role as a vehicle for public discourse, activism, and social transformation in Indonesia.
Art as resistance, visual art, activism, social justice, political critique, Indonesia, human rights
Art, Censorship, and Justice in Indonesia: Navigating the Boundaries of Creative Expression and Political Control
In Indonesia, the tension between artistic freedom and censorship remains a critical issue, particularly as political and religious authorities exercise control over the content of public and private art. This paper explores the boundaries of creative expression in Indonesia, focusing on how censorship—both institutional and societal—limits artists' ability to critique the state, challenge dominant ideologies, or address sensitive political issues. By examining case studies of banned artworks, protests against governmental policies, and the role of censorship laws, the study highlights the ways in which art navigates, resists, and sometimes succumbs to political and religious pressures. The paper argues that censorship is not just a tool of repression but also a catalyst for artistic innovation, forcing artists to find creative ways to communicate their messages while negotiating the legal and moral limits of expression in Indonesia.
Art and censorship, political control, freedom of expression, Indonesia, resistance, creative boundaries, artistic repression
Art, Justice, and the Marginalized: Elevating Voices of Underrepresented Communities in Indonesia Through Art
Art has the power to amplify the voices of marginalized communities, offering a platform for social justice and recognition. This paper explores how Indonesian artists and cultural organizations are working to elevate the voices of underrepresented groups, including ethnic minorities, women, LGBTQ+ communities, and indigenous peoples. By examining art exhibitions, community projects, and public performances, the study analyzes how marginalized communities use art to express their identities, tell their stories, and demand social and political justice. The paper also looks at the role of art in challenging stereotypes, addressing inequalities, and fostering solidarity across diverse groups in Indonesia, contributing to a more inclusive and just society.
Marginalized communities, art and justice, Indonesia, social equity, inclusion, advocacy, identity expression
The Role of Art Education in Promoting Social Justice and Cultural Awareness in Indonesia
Art education in Indonesia holds significant potential for fostering social justice and cultural awareness among the younger generation. This paper examines how art education in schools, universities, and community programs promotes critical thinking, cultural appreciation, and activism. By focusing on art curricula that include topics such as gender equality, racial justice, environmental issues, and human rights, the study explores how art education can instill values of social responsibility and empathy. The paper also investigates the challenges and opportunities in integrating social justice themes into traditional art education, and how educators and students are using art as a tool for both personal expression and collective social change.
Art education, social justice, cultural awareness, Indonesia, youth empowerment, human rights, activism
Art, Activism, and the State: Navigating the Tensions Between Art and Politics in Indonesia
In Indonesia, art has long been a medium for political resistance and activism, but this relationship has often been fraught with tension. This paper explores the complex dynamics between art, activism, and the state, focusing on how Indonesian artists navigate state censorship, political oppression, and freedom of expression. It examines historical and contemporary examples of politically charged art that challenges authoritarianism, inequality, and human rights violations. The study also considers the legal constraints faced by artists, particularly those involved in critical or subversive art movements, and how the state responds to these forms of expression. By analyzing both mainstream and underground art practices, the paper investigates the role of art as a form of political resistance and social justice advocacy in Indonesia.
Art and politics, activism, censorship, Indonesia, state control, resistance, freedom of expression, human rights
Preserving Cultural Heritage: The Role of Art in Safeguarding Indonesia’s Diverse Traditions and Languages
Indonesia's rich cultural diversity is increasingly threatened by globalization, urbanization, and the erosion of indigenous languages and traditions. This paper examines the role of art in preserving Indonesia’s cultural heritage, focusing on traditional arts, crafts, and indigenous languages. It explores how visual arts, performance, and literature are being utilized as tools to document, revitalize, and pass down cultural practices that are at risk of disappearing. By analyzing the work of artists, cultural organizations, and indigenous communities, the paper investigates how art serves as both a form of resistance and a means of safeguarding cultural identity. It also considers the legal and policy frameworks in place to protect Indonesia's intangible cultural heritage and the challenges of balancing preservation with the pressures of modernization.
Cultural heritage, art and tradition, Indonesia, indigenous languages, cultural preservation, globalization, resistance
Art as Therapy: Addressing Mental Health and Social Justice Through Artistic Expression in Indonesia
In Indonesia, mental health remains a stigmatized and often overlooked issue, particularly in marginalized communities. This paper explores the therapeutic role of art in addressing mental health challenges and promoting social justice. Focusing on art therapy practices, community art projects, and grassroots movements, the study highlights how creative expression is being used as a tool for mental healing, self-expression, and social inclusion. By examining case studies from various regions, the paper explores how art provides a safe space for individuals affected by trauma, depression, and anxiety, while also empowering them to share their personal stories and advocate for greater mental health support and awareness. The study also considers how art-based interventions are helping to break down stigma and foster a more inclusive approach to mental health care in Indonesia.
Art therapy, mental health, social justice, Indonesia, creative expression, trauma healing, community art
Art and Religious Justice: Exploring the Role of Art in Promoting Religious Tolerance in Indonesia
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.
Religious justice, art and tolerance, Indonesia, interfaith dialogue, religious diversity, social harmony, art as advocacy
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Youth and Art: Empowering Indonesia’s Younger Generations to Engage with Social Justice Through Art
Youth engagement with art offers powerful potential for fostering social change, and this paper explores how Indonesian young people are using art as a platform to address social justice issues. From graffiti and street art to digital storytelling, young Indonesian artists are challenging the status quo and raising awareness about issues such as gender equality, climate change, and political corruption. The study examines art education programs, youth-run art collectives, and online platforms that encourage young people to express themselves creatively while engaging with contemporary issues. The paper argues that empowering the younger generation to use art as a tool for social justice not only promotes individual creativity but also fosters collective action for a more just and equitable society.
Youth empowerment, art education, social justice, Indonesia, activism, generational change, creative expression
The Role of Digital Art in Advancing Justice and Equality in Indonesia’s Artistic Communities
With the rapid advancement of technology and the rise of digital platforms, digital art has emerged as a powerful tool for promoting justice and equality in Indonesia’s artistic landscape. This paper explores how digital art, from online exhibitions to virtual activism, has democratized access to artistic expression, enabling marginalized groups to share their voices and challenge societal norms. It examines the ways in which digital art allows for greater inclusivity, especially for underrepresented communities such as rural artists, LGBTQ+ individuals, and indigenous peoples. By focusing on several case studies of digital art projects and online campaigns, the paper analyzes how the digital sphere offers new avenues for political expression, social justice advocacy, and global solidarity.
Digital art, art and technology, justice, equality, Indonesia, social media activism, inclusivity
Art and Economic Justice: Addressing Inequities in the Indonesian Art Market
The Indonesian art market has seen significant growth in recent years, yet disparities in economic access and representation remain significant issues for many artists, particularly those from marginalized communities. This paper investigates the economic inequalities within the Indonesian art market, exploring the ways in which market forces, institutional structures, and cultural hierarchies create barriers for emerging artists, particularly those from rural areas or lower socio-economic backgrounds. It critically examines the roles of galleries, auction houses, and international collectors in shaping the visibility and financial success of Indonesian artists. The paper also considers alternative models of art distribution and sales, such as community-based art markets and grassroots initiatives, that aim to address these economic disparities and promote greater fairness in the art world.
Art market, economic justice, Indonesia, representation, inequality, grassroots art, cultural economy
Art, Memory, and Justice: The Role of Art in Indonesia’s Post-Conflict Healing and Reconciliation
Indonesia’s history of violent conflicts, such as the 1965-66 anti-communist purge, the May 1998 riots, and the communal violence in Maluku and Poso, has left deep scars on its social fabric. This paper examines the role of art in the nation’s post-conflict healing and reconciliation processes. Through memorial art, public installations, and performance, Indonesian artists have sought to address collective trauma, facilitate dialogue, and promote justice for victims. The study investigates how art serves as both a space for remembering and a tool for addressing historical injustices, reflecting on its potential to foster social cohesion, acknowledge the suffering of marginalized communities, and challenge state narratives. It also explores the role of art in educating future generations about the importance of reconciliation and peacebuilding.
Post-conflict healing, art and memory, reconciliation, Indonesia, historical trauma, social justice, collective memory
Disability and Art: The Justice of Representation for Disabled Artists in Indonesia
Representation and inclusion of disabled individuals in the arts are often overlooked, both in terms of access to artistic opportunities and in the portrayal of disability within artistic narratives. This paper explores the issue of disability justice in the Indonesian art scene, focusing on the challenges faced by disabled artists in terms of recognition, accessibility, and opportunities to showcase their work. It also examines how disability is represented in Indonesian art, both by disabled and non-disabled artists, and the extent to which these representations challenge or reinforce societal attitudes toward disability. The paper argues that fostering a more inclusive art environment can help reshape public perceptions of disability and promote justice through greater visibility and participation of disabled artists.
Disability justice, art representation, Indonesia, inclusive art, disabled artists, art and social change
Art, Activism, and Social Justice: How Indonesian Artists Address Contemporary Issues
In recent years, Indonesian artists have increasingly used their work as a tool for activism, tackling social, political, and environmental issues. This paper examines the role of art in Indonesian social justice movements, focusing on how contemporary artists address issues such as human rights, environmental degradation, gender inequality, and political repression. By analyzing key works from artivists—artists who combine activism with art—the paper explores how art becomes a medium for resistance, protest, and advocacy. It also considers the challenges artists face in navigating Indonesia's complex political landscape and the role of art in pushing for social change in the context of censorship, state control, and public opinion.
Artivism, social justice, Indonesia, art and activism, political art, human rights
Cultural Appropriation and Justice: The Ethics of Using Indigenous Art Forms in Contemporary Indonesian Art
As Indonesia navigates its rich tapestry of indigenous cultures, contemporary artists are often faced with the ethical dilemma of cultural appropriation, particularly when using indigenous art forms or symbols in their work. This paper explores the fine line between cultural exchange and appropriation, critically analyzing how contemporary Indonesian artists engage with indigenous art traditions. Through case studies of artists who incorporate indigenous motifs, materials, and techniques into their work, the paper examines the social, ethical, and legal dimensions of cultural appropriation. It also considers the perspectives of indigenous communities regarding the use of their cultural heritage in contemporary art and proposes a framework for fostering respect and justice in cultural exchanges.
Cultural appropriation, indigenous art, Indonesia, ethics in art, cultural heritage, contemporary art
Access to Art: Bridging the Gap Between Urban and Rural Communities in Indonesia’s Art Scene
In Indonesia, there is a notable disparity in access to art and artistic education between urban and rural communities. This paper investigates the barriers to equitable access to art in the country, focusing on the uneven distribution of resources, opportunities, and exposure to artistic practices. The study analyzes how the concentration of artistic institutions and markets in major urban centers like Jakarta and Yogyakarta limits rural communities’ participation in the art scene. It also explores initiatives and grassroots movements aimed at bridging this gap, including mobile art education programs, community-based art projects, and online platforms. The paper argues for the importance of inclusive art policies that ensure all Indonesians, regardless of their geographic location, can access and participate in the cultural economy.
Art accessibility, urban-rural divide, Indonesia, art education, community-based art, equity in culture
Art and Identity: The Role of Artistic Expression in Shaping Indonesian National Identity
Art has played a crucial role in the formation and expression of Indonesian national identity, particularly in the post-independence era. This paper explores how Indonesian artists, through diverse forms such as painting, sculpture, film, and performance, have contributed to the development of a collective national identity that balances traditional cultural elements with modern influences. The study examines how art reflects the complexities of Indonesia's multicultural society, addresses issues of unity and diversity, and negotiates between local, regional, and national identities. By analyzing key artistic movements and influential works, this paper argues that art not only reflects national identity but actively shapes it, offering a space for contestation and reaffirmation of what it means to be Indonesian.
National identity, art and culture, Indonesia, artistic expression, multiculturalism, national unity