Ari Wuryanto

1990

Born in Karangpandan, Karanganyar, Central Java, Ari Wuryanto draws inspiration from rural life and Javanese culture, blending it with Western perspectives. Influenced by surrealist I Gusti Nengah Nurata, he defines success as creating meaningful art while sustaining a livelihood and impacting the art world. Grounded in a settled artistic style, his themes reflect soul-searching and human conflict. He views galleries as key to reaching wider audiences and sees creativity as essential in navigating modern societal challenges. His favorite quote, "The artist is the glitch in the matrix," embodies their outlook.

Inquiry

get to know the artist

Interview with Ari Wuryanto

Where are you from and how does that affect your work?

Born and raised in Karangpandan, Central Java, I’m deeply rooted in traditional rural values. Despite exploring Western perspectives, local wisdom and spirituality remain central to my work, often reflected in its themes.

Who are your biggest artistic influences?

I’ve been influenced by many references, making it hard to pinpoint specific ones. These influences shape my subconscious, but I focus on being myself when I paint. If I had to name one, it would be I Gusti Nengah Nurata, my lecturer at ISI Surakarta—a true surrealist with unmatched insight and experience.

How do you define success as an artist?

I admire S. Sudjojono for his artistic achievements, nationalism, and honesty. He also sustained himself financially through art. For me, a successful artist lives off their art, both ideologically and financially, while impacting the art world and the broader community.

How do you develop your art skills?

By continuously practicing art and engaging with discourse.

Describe your dream project.

In the short term, I plan to publish a book about my creative process and my reflections as an artist, as well as on the art ecosystem. After that, I intend to hold a solo exhibition, although I don't yet know when or where it will take place.

What is the main inspiration behind your latest artwork?

Recently, I've been reflecting on how human reality is being distorted by the rise of social media, especially in a society that's not mentally prepared or well-educated enough to cope with it. However, my approach is always from a personal perspective.

Is there a specific theme or message that you want to convey through your artwork?

Conveying a message is not my main goal when creating art. Apart from economic interests, I try to create works that reflect genuine contemplation and anxiety about human life. I hope viewers can feel this. They don't need to understand what I'm describing, but I hope the work resonates with them on some level, psychologically or intellectually.

How would you describe your creative process? Is there a special technique or medium that you use?

For me, the creative process is about living thoughtfully. I focus on exploring ideas rather than experimenting with tools. I work mostly with acrylics, pens, and pencils on canvas and paper. My inspiration comes from books on art, culture, science, and philosophy, as well as reflective content from social media.

How do you overcome challenges in creating art?

By maintaining creative energy, staying aware of ideological discourse and market developments, and being sensitive to the ever-evolving times.

As an artist, what is your favorite quote?

I found this quote on Instagram, and though it had no attribution, it resonated with me. Perhaps because, long before, I had studied popular culture, modernism, and even a bit of Sufism, along with being influenced by the film The Matrix.