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.

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Interview with Ari Wuryanto

Where are you from and how does that affect your work?
I was born and grew up in the village of Karangpandan District, Karanganyar Regency, Central Java. Growing up in a rural environment that remains "ndeso" (traditional), I feel deeply rooted in local wisdom. Although I have studied various perspectives of Western thought, it cannot entirely erase the spiritual nuances and socio-cultural aspects typical of rural thinking. As a result, the spirit of local values and philosophies often finds its way into my work, whether implicitly or explicitly.
Who are your biggest artistic influences?
I'm not entirely sure, as I've been exposed to so many references since I started learning to paint that it's difficult to distinguish which has been more or less influential. These influences settle in the subconscious. When I paint, I don't think about who I want to emulate. I try to be myself, albeit someone shaped by many of these references. If I had to mention one name, I would say I Gusti Nengah Nurata, a lecturer of mine at ISI Surakarta. He possesses an unrivaled sharpness in evaluating art and has a wealth of experience. In my opinion, he is a true surrealist.
How do you define success as an artist?
I'm not entirely sure. But in the context of this question, I think of S. Sudjojono, an artist I admire for his artistic achievements and his ideology, which reflects nationalism and honesty. Moreover, he was able to sustain himself economically through his art. So, I might conclude that a successful artist is one who can live off their art, both ideologically and financially, and whose existence has an impact on the art world and, hopefully, the wider 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 feels like "just living life well." I'm not "rebellious" in the sense of experimenting with tools and materials; instead, I delve deeper into ideas and themes. I started by experimenting with all the usual drawing and painting tools, but I now feel most comfortable using acrylic paint, ballpoint pens, drawing pens, and pencils on canvas and paper. My creative thinking is influenced by reading a variety of books—on fine art, culture, science, social issues, philosophy, fiction, and non-fiction—and consuming content on social media, which also provides inspiration for reflection.
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.
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Ari Wuryanto

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Interstellar

Ari Wuryanto
Acrylic on canvas
80x100cm
$1,900.00

Raping A Pop Culture

Ari Wuryanto
Acrylic on canvas
110x90cm
$1,900.00

Reversed Imagery

Ari Wuryanto
Acrylic on canvas
90x70cm
$750.00

Unrealistic Air In The House

Ari Wuryanto
Acrylic on canvas
80x100cm
$1,800.00

Whispers Of The Holy Flow

Ari Wuryanto
Acrylic on canvas
90x110cm
$2,100.00