KBRN, Manado: Art once again takes center stage as a universal language for peace and sustainability. On Saturday, September 6, 2025, the SBY Art Community officially opened its painting exhibition titled Art for Peace and a Better Future at ASHTA District 8, SCBD Jakarta, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of Indonesia’s independence.

Indonesia’s sixth president, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY), founder and patron of the community, emphasized the unifying power of art during the opening ceremony.

“This exhibition reflects artists’ concern for the challenges of life, not only in Indonesia but across the world. Artists want to be part of the solution, because we all cherish peace,” SBY said.

Running from September 7 to October 5, 2025, at Spac8 ASHTA District 8, the exhibition features 31 paintings themed around peace, sustainability, and intergenerational hope.

Its centerpiece is a collaborative work titled Destruction Ruins, Peace Paints, a 2.5 x 7-meter canvas created jointly by SBY and members of the SBY Art Community. Eight of SBY’s personal paintings are also on display, offering intimate reflections on humanity and love for the nation.

Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky Harsya praised the exhibition not only for its artistic merit but also for its contribution to Indonesia’s creative economy.

“This is a meaningful moment. The exhibition goes beyond aesthetics. It’s a deliberate effort to elevate the economic value of art through innovation and creativity,” he said.

Curated by Suwarno Wisetrotomo and Rizki Akhmad Zaelani, the exhibition also includes public programs such as Artist Talks and Art Workshops, designed to make art more accessible and educational.

Ediwan Prabowo, Coordinator of the SBY Art Community, highlighted the importance of inclusivity. “Art isn’t just meant to be seen. It’s meant to be felt. That’s why we chose a mall as the venue, to bring art closer to the public,” he explained.

The opening was attended by several public figures, including Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, Fadli Zon, and Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono.

The Art for Peace and a Better Future exhibition aims to foster unity, expand appreciation for visual arts, and affirm the role of art in advancing sustainable development. It is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Jakarta Time. ***

Translator: Diva Rifdah Rizkia Puspitaningnala

Editor: Sri Wahyuni