Bagus Pandega's 'Daya Benda' at Swiss Institute explores colonial extraction through plant-controlled technology

Bagus Pandega, an artist from Indonesia, showcased his inaugural institutional solo exhibition titled 'Daya Benda' at the Swiss Institute in New York from September 30, 2025, until January 4, 2026. This exhibition delved into Indonesia's colonial past and its economy reliant on resources through three distinct installations: Anim Wraska (2025), Hyperpnea Green (2024), and Putar Petir Racing Team (2025). The event marked the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II and the declaration of Indonesia's independence in 1945. Under the direction of Stefanie Hessler, who emphasized environmental themes, Pandega's artwork connected historical spice trade items to modern nickel extraction, as Indonesia has been the top nickel producer globally since 2023. The exhibition concluded just as New York inaugurated its first Muslim mayor in early 2026.