Indonesia Strengthens Art Ecosystem, Promotes Cultural Diplomacy Through Visual

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, met with prominent visual artists in Yogyakarta, Sunday March 29, 2026, to strengthen the national art ecosystem. The meeting also aimed to enhance the role of artists in advancing Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy on the global stage.

The gathering, held at the Grand Hotel de Djokja, provided an open dialogue between the government and art practitioners. Discussions covered key issues such as infrastructure development, access to exhibition spaces, and support for international mobility.

Fadli Zon emphasized that visual arts play a crucial role in expressing national identity and cultural diversity. He noted that the government is committed to expanding creative spaces and utilizing cultural assets to support contemporary art growth.

“We want to ensure that artists do not walk alone. The state is present to open access, strengthen networks, and create a healthy ecosystem for sustainable artistic practices,” he said.

The minister also highlighted the importance of increasing the global presence of Indonesian artists. According to him, cultural diplomacy through visual arts is an effective way to showcase Indonesia’s dynamic and diverse identity.

He added that cross-border collaboration and participation in international exhibitions will continue to be encouraged. These efforts are part of Indonesia’s broader national cultural strategy.

The meeting was attended by several well-known artists, including Jumaldi Alfi, Yunizar, and Putu Sutawijaya. Their participation reflected the strong engagement of Indonesia’s art community in shaping future cultural policies.

The Ministry of Culture expects the meeting to mark an initial step toward stronger collaboration between the government and artists. It also reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access and positioning visual arts as a strategic tool in global cultural diplomacy.