Fine Arts: Aesthetics that Drive the Creative Economy

RRI.CO.ID, Bali - Deputy Minister of Creative Economy/Deputy Head of the Creative Economy Agency (Ekraf), Irene Umar, visited the Tonyraka Art Gallery in Ubud, Bali, to observe the national art ecosystem that bridges local cultural heritage with global standards.

The Deputy Minister called the art gallery crucial as a hub for creative interaction for the advancement of Indonesia's creative economy.

"Tonyraka Art Gallery is a clear example of how creative spaces in Bali are able to preserve local culture amid the rapid flow of contemporary art. Our presence here is to ensure that the art ecosystem continues to receive appropriate policy support so that it can continue to be a driving force for an inclusive creative economy," said the Deputy Minister in Bali on Saturday (9 May).

The Deputy Minister conducted a direct inspection of the exhibition area to observe the gallery's active link between traditional Balinese art and developments in contemporary art, both nationally and internationally.

The visit aimed to identify challenges facing artists and strengthen synergy between the government and independent art spaces in creating a sustainable ecosystem for artists and collectors.

"Tonyraka's strength lies in its ability to foster healthy dialogue between local Balinese culture, modern art practices, and international art networks. We see great potential in developing the fine arts subsector, which delivers not only aesthetic value but also sustainable economic value through art installations and other innovative works created by the talented Indonesian artists," added the Deputy Minister of Creative Economy.

This visit also emphasized that amidst rapid technological developments, emotional intelligence and the human touch remain essential elements that cannot be replicated by artificial intelligence.

Through the integration of logic and the art of life, preserving cultural roots becomes the primary foundation that gives meaning and profound value to every innovation created.

"Technology is a tool, but human feeling and will are the soul that gives meaning to every work. That is why emotional intelligence and our cultural roots remain a foundation that cannot be replaced by any artificial intelligence," said the Deputy Minister of Creative Economy.

According to a release received by Voice of Indonesia on Saturday, 9 May 2026 that this art gallery was founded by artist and collector Tony Raka, Tonyraka Art Gallery has grown into a hub of creative interaction in Ubud, connecting the richness of traditional Balinese art to national and international art networks.

The gallery focuses on developing contemporary art through various mediums such as painting, sculpture, installation art, and mixed media art, making it a vital part of the burgeoning contemporary art scene in the Ubud area.

This visit emphasized the importance of art galleries as bridges for local artists to the international stage.

Furthermore, the blend of traditional values and modern elements in the exhibited works represents a valuable intellectual asset that can strengthen Indonesia's position as a center for fine art in Southeast Asia.