The long-anticipated moment of presenting a remarkable piece of art to the President of the Hellenic Republic, H.E. Katerina Sakellaropoulou, has finally arrived. Renowned Indonesian artist Naufal Abshar dedicated a month in Athens to create a series of extraordinary masterpieces. Here’s a brief recap of this artistic milestone.
Here are the official publication from Indonesian Embassy in Athens website.
Athens, Tuesday 17 December 2024 – As Indonesia and Greece mark 75 years of the friendly relations, the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia in Athens, Dr. Bebeb A. K. N. Djundjunan presented a heartfelt gift from Indonesia to the President of the Hellenic Republic H.E. Katerina Sakellaropoulou. A masterpiece of painting created by prominent young Indonesian artist, Naufal Abshar, serves as a symbol of the enduring friendship based on the values of democracy and national unity upheld by both countries as prominent maritime countries in the global order.
Athens, Tuesday 17 December 2024 – As Indonesia and Greece mark 75 years of the friendly relations, the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia in Athens, Dr. Bebeb A. K. N. Djundjunan presented a heartfelt gift from Indonesia to the President of the Hellenic Republic H.E. Katerina Sakellaropoulou. A masterpiece of painting created by prominent young Indonesian artist, Naufal Abshar, serves as a symbol of the enduring friendship based on the values of democracy and national unity upheld by both countries as prominent maritime countries in the global order.
In the opportune moment of procession which was held at the Presidential Mansion on Tuesday (17/12) in Athens, the Indonesian Ambassador specifically underscored the importance of the said artwork as an expression of Indonesia’s sincere appreciation for the people and the Government of the Hellenic Republic which consistently reflects democratic values, friendship, and humanity. The painting also serves of Indonesia’s gratitude to Greece, which was one of the first European countries to recognize Indonesia’s independence in 1949 through its full support to the official membership of Indonesia in the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). “This work of art represents a bridge between our history, values and aspirations, and is hoped to strengthen relations between the two nations in the future”, as further stated by Indonesian Ambassador.
Indonesia-Greece relations are rooted in mutual respect and the same principles, further solidified through a formal diplomatic relation was established later on 23 February 1958. Both countries have a unique heritage as archipelagic and maritime countries upholding democracy with extraordinary cultural and historical richness.
The artwork presented is part of the efforts in “art diplomacy” approach by the Indonesian Embassy in Athens, as soft power diplomacy by promoting the spirit and common positive values of excellence shared by the two countries to the highest level of the Greek government. Inspired by the long tradition and history of Greek democracy, Indonesia’s journey as a country in building democracy amidst the diversity of its society is outlined in this special painting.
This significant moment also highlights the effort in promoting exceptional talent on art of Indonesia. Naufal Abshar, one of Indonesia’s most acclaimed young contemporary artists, has gained international recognition for his distinctive style and thought-provoking works. His art has been showcased in exhibitions worldwide, including in New York, Venice, Singapore, and Lithuania, and is part of prestigious collections globally.
During the journey of the art diplomacy and creative process in making this special art piece, Naufal immersed himself in Greece’s rich cultural and historical landscape. Over the course in September 2024, he travelled through Athens and other parts of Greece, drawing inspiration from its timeless beauty and cultural legacy.
Naufal Abshar’s artistic vision, enriched by his global experience, highlights the power of art diplomacy in bridging relations between both nations’ people. The key element in the painting with the strong character of the blue sea symbolizing the similarities between Indonesia and Greece as fellow maritime and archipelagic countries, reinforced by the joyful faces of Indonesian and Greek sailors with their respective diverse identities showcasing the rich culture of the two nations.
“This impressive painting is a tribute to the eternal ties between Greece and Indonesia, two nations rooted in history and guided by democratic principles. I hope this artwork will be a reminder of the values we share and the opportunities created when cultures connected through mutual respect and understanding”, said the President Sakellaropoulou in commenting this piece of art.
The handover of this artwork that directly received in person by the President of the Hellenic Republic at the Presidential Mansion is not only a symbol of respect towards the historical bilateral relations, nevertheless also a confidence for continued cooperation and the two countries’ prosperity in the future. The artwork will be a testament of the close relationship between Indonesia and Greece, united by a commitment to democracy and the values of national unity.
[Video below produced by Udasoni Situris]
Informational flyer design to learn more about Indonesia – Greece 75 Years of Friendship, the artist, and relevant background history.
While in Athens, Naufal Abshar engaged in creative collaborations with Greek artists, blending diverse artistic perspectives into something truly unique.
These remarkable artworks, along with a wooden sculpture crafted by ISI Denpasar artisans I Made Suparta and I Made Sumantra, were proudly showcased in an exhibition at the Michael Cacoyannis Foundation.
Let us introduce the talented sculptors behind the captivating wooden masterpiece: I Made Sumantra and I Made Suparta.
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