Exhibition
Common Beauty II

Artist
Sastra Wibawa

Written by
Krisna Sudharma

a perspective that maneuvers between the tangible and intangible, the explicit and nuanced.
– 

Sastra Wibawa, (b. 1991), is an acclaimed artist lauded for his innovative blend of two and three-dimensional elements. His captivating creations transform the canvas into an immersive, almost tactile, landscape that draws the viewer into its unique realm.

‘Transition’ acts as a gallant force, adept in at reducing distractions, commanding wholehearted engagement. Wibawa crafts an evolving visual narrative, drawing the viewer through a series of moments or ‘phases.’ These guide them from one thematic realm to the next. This exploration begins with the dawn of perception—an initial approach that lays the groundwork for a sensory dialogue.

At the heart of navigating ‘Transition’ is the exploration of a sensory threshold—a concept acting as an invisible line, experienced not only visually but through a symphony of senses.

Wibawa redefines the essence of artwork, ingeniously engaging with ‘mundane’ elements and recontextualizing them with unexpected depth. Through careful arrangement of lines and layers, he injects sentimentality into the ordinary, elevating it to the realm of the extraordinary. His direction fosters a multi-sensory experience that transcends basic art markers like color, line, shape, or size, adding vitality and dynamism to observation, making ‘Transition’ a vivid experience that can be fully felt.

Wibawa skillfully blurs the distinction between different stimuli, encouraging observers to discover individual elements within a cohesive whole. This strategic ambiguity challenges the viewer to deeper engagement, fostering a contemplative interaction. A telltale of Wibawa’s ability is how he ventures beyond the visual, communicating a complex blend of tactile sensations, sensory experiences, and emotional indices. This approach encourages the audience to ponder—what can truly be felt? How do various elements—form, thought, or emotion—coalesce, challenging the notion of separation? This strategic ambiguity enhances the artwork, compelling a reevaluation of our perceptions and assumptions.

‘Transition’ encapsulates Wibawa’s distinctive perspective—a perspective that maneuvers between the tangible and intangible, the explicit and nuanced. Engaging with ‘Transition’ reveals new insights, stimulating responses that extend beyond simple aesthetic appreciation.