RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Yogyakarta’s art scene is celebrating a major collaboration as two of its most prominent artists, Nasirun and Dunadi, present their works side by side in the exhibition “ARUNDHATI”: Syawalan Seni Dunadi & Nasirun – Seniku Mohon Maaf Lahir & Batin (My Art, Forgive Me Body and Soul).

The event runs at Pendhapa Art Space in Bantul from June 20 to August 20, 2026. It is open daily and free to the public.

Curated by Kuss Indarto, the exhibition showcases dozens of two- and three-dimensional works by the two renowned Yogyakarta artists. Nasirun is rooted in painting, while Dunadi is celebrated for sculpture.

Nasirun, born in Cilacap, Central Java, in 1965, has expanded his practice into mixed media and three-dimensional explorations. Dunadi, born in Bantul in 1960, is known for monumental sculptures, many commissioned and displayed across Indonesia and abroad.

Both artists share the same academic background, having graduated from SSRI (Indonesian School of Fine Arts), later renamed SMSR and now State-run Vocational High School SMKN 3 Kasihan in Bantul.

They continued their studies at the Faculty of Fine Arts, Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI) Yogyakarta. This exhibition marks their first direct collaboration, presenting a larger number of works in one dedicated space.

In the past, their works occasionally appeared together in shared exhibitions, but always alongside many other artists, making the dialogue between them less distinct.

On this occasion, they present a larger number of works at Dunadi’s own Pendhapa Art Space. Beyond the quantity of pieces displayed, the exhibition seeks to convey deeper values and meanings.

The exhibition is divided into thematic rooms, each offering a distinct narrative. One is dedicated to Arundhati; another, titled Attribute of Affandi, pays tribute to Affandi, widely regarded as Indonesia’s most influential modern painter, while Memorabilia showcases early works from both artists.

Gallery sitter Mia explained the meaning behind the title. “The title Arundhati is inspired by Goddess Arundhati, the wife of Sage Vasishtha, who is narrated as a woman holding firmly to loyalty. The word ‘anindhita’ in Sanskrit is associated with two meanings, loyalty and a star in the sky,” she said on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.

Nasirun presents a 14 x 3-meter painting dedicated to COVID-19 survivors, alongside 100 carved wooden blocks featuring local business brands.

Each block carries its own narrative, reflecting the brand owners' identities engraved upon them. He also unveils hundreds of ornamented foot sculptures. Each is unique, symbolizing diversity within human uniformity.

This interplay of sameness and difference, with its broad social and political implications, becomes a source of creative wealth in Nasirun’s art. Several other works further illustrate the dynamic nature of his exploration, which consistently pushes beyond conventional boundaries.

Dunadi displays monumental sculptures of Soekarno and Hatta, each seven meters tall, echoing his earlier commission for Indonesia’s new capital, IKN, in East Kalimantan.

His long career includes at least 15 versions of Bung Karno since the 1980s, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most prolific sculptors of the nation’s founding father.

His earliest public sculpture, depicting General Ahmad Yani, still stands prominently at the eastern side of the intersection of Jalan Pahlawan and Jalan Soekarno-Hatta in West Purworejo, Central Java.

Both artists also present earlier works, reinforcing the exhibition’s theme of loyalty and endurance. The title Arundhati reflects their devotion to art for more than three decades, while the metaphor of “a star in the sky” suggests public recognition of their creative journeys.

Yogyakarta’s art calendar, which hosts more than 400 exhibitions annually, is further enriched by Arundhati. The collaboration adds fresh energy and underscores the depth of their creative exploration.

Interestingly, both artists carry nicknames in the local art community. Nasirun is known as the “fried-food artist,” reflecting his responsiveness to market demand, while Dunadi is dubbed the “project artist” for his extensive commission work. These labels highlight their resilience and adaptability in sustaining long careers.

The exhibition Arundhati is not only a showcase of works but also a testament to loyalty, endurance, and the creative legacy of two artists who have remained unwavering in their devotion to art for over thirty years. ***