Indonesia Highlights Fine Arts as Soft Power at ArtMoments Jakarta 2026

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Creative Economy Minister and Head of the Creative Economy Agency, Teuku Riefky Harsya, has emphasized that fine arts play a strategic role in elevating Indonesia's global standing. He added that the sector also serves as a vital pillar of the nation's creative economy ecosystem.

Speaking at the grand opening of ArtMoments Jakarta 2026 in the Agora Ballroom, Jakarta, on Thursday, June 4, 2026, the Minister noted that art remains essential amid a rapidly changing global landscape. He emphasized its role as a powerful medium for forging connections, enriching perspectives, and solidifying cultural identity.

"The creative economy today is not merely about financial transactions, but about how creativity serves as a nation's soft power. Artworks are capable of building influence, initiating dialogue, and strengthening Indonesia's cultural identity in the eyes of the world," said the Minister.

The opening ceremony was also attended by Deputy Minister Irene Umar, underscoring the ministry's full leadership support for the domestic fine arts industry. The Minister praised the curatorial theme of ArtMoments Jakarta 2026, Intimacy of Offerings: Matter, Memory, and Connection, calling it deeply relevant to contemporary global dynamics.

The theme invites the public to reflect on the importance of human relationships, cultural memory, and the values passed down through generations. Furthermore, Teuku Riefky commended ArtMoments Jakarta for its consistency in providing a premier platform that unites artists, galleries, collectors, curators, and creative industry players from across the globe.

"The participation of international stakeholders in this event demonstrates that Indonesia is increasingly recognized as a major player in the global art discourse," he added.

Scheduled to open to the general public from June 5 to 7, ArtMoments Jakarta 2026 aims to attract 25,000 visitors. The fair features approximately 75 exhibitors, drawing participation from 12 countries and dozens of prominent art galleries.

Alongside international showcases, a definitive highlight of this year's edition is the exhibition of legendary masterpieces by Indonesian maestros, including S. Sudjojono, Affandi, and Mochtar Apin.

"Through the theme of Offerings, ArtMoments Jakarta 2026 serves as a gathering space to preserve the legacy of our art maestros. Ultimately, art is not just about what we witness today, but about the cultural values and identity we build for the future," said Fair Director of ArtMoments, Sendy Widjaja.

The Minister's presence at ArtMoments Jakarta 2026 reinforces the government's concrete commitment to advancing the creative economy, specifically in the fine arts sector, spearheaded by the Ministry's Deputy for Cultural Creativity. (Annaila Azzahra/EN)

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