Biennale Jogja 18 Explores Javanese Knowledge with Uneven Results
The 18th Biennale Jogja, named 'KAWRUH: Land of Rooted Practices,' delves into Javanese experiential wisdom while facing organizational hurdles. Scheduled for two segments—September 19-24, 2025, and October 5-November 20, 2025—in Yogyakarta and Boro Hamlet, the event showcases approximately 60 artists across 11 locations. The curatorial focus aims to question Western knowledge systems through Indigenous perspectives. Featured pieces include Faisal Kamadobat's 'Piwulang Suwargi' (2025), Yuta Niwa's 'Non-dual Mandala of the Banquet Table' (2025), and Posak Jodian's 'Misafafahiyan – Teman dari Jauh' (2025). However, logistical challenges during the opening week restricted public access, primarily drawing international art experts and raising issues regarding the institution's local engagement since its inception in 1988.
Key facts
- Biennale Jogja 18 runs September 19-24, 2025 (Part I) and October 5-November 20, 2025 (Part II)
- Theme 'KAWRUH' explores Javanese experiential knowledge challenging Western frameworks
- Features approximately 60 artists across 11 venues in Yogyakarta and Boro Hamlet
- Includes Faisal Kamadobat's installation combining Islamic and Javanese mythologies
- Yuta Niwa's painting blends Japanese and Javanese belief systems at Purnama Store venue
- Posak Jodian's video work features Indonesian and Taiwanese transgender performers
- Imal Malabar's charcoal installation at Bibis Monument includes drawings of General Sudirman
- Founded in 1988, Biennale Jogja pioneered South-South artistic exchanges
Entities
Artists
- Faisal Kamadobat
- Ki Girang Tampian
- Yuta Niwa
- Posak Jodian
- Hao Hao
- Arahmaiani
- Kolektif Arungkala
- Imal Malabar
- General Sudirman
Institutions
- Biennale Jogja
- KWT Sawit
- Alliance of Independent Journalists in Gorontalo
- ArtReview Asia
Locations
- Yogyakarta
- Indonesia
- Boro Hamlet
- Taiwan
- Gorontalo
- Southeast Asia