Dimas Hussein

2001

Dimas Hussein was influenced by romanticism and inspired by Ugo Untoro, draws from personal experiences, relationships, and emotions. Success for him is simply creating art. Art helps him navigate life with empathy and creativity. He develops his skills through daily sketching and experimentation. A former member of the Penjarah Kosan collective, he dreams of a solo exhibition titled "Homage to You." His work, including the "Traveling Man" series, is driven by personal observations and experiments with different visual styles. His goal is to inspire and connect with viewers through his art.

Inquiry

get to know the artist

Interview with Dimas Hussein

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

I come from a warm, intimate, and slightly melancholic environment and upbringing. This background influences my artistic spirit, which often leans toward romanticism.

Who are your biggest artistic influences?

I’m inspired by Ugo Untoro, particularly his artistic perspective and sensitivity. Poetry and novels also inspire me greatly. However, because my work stems from personal experiences, the people who inspire me most are my friends, family, or anyone who has helped, taught me lessons, and given me vitality.

How do you define success as an artist?

I consider myself successful as an artist when I manage to create a piece of work.

How do you develop your art skills?

Every day, I try to make small sketches or scribbles. Sometimes, ideas and visuals emerge from these small things. To develop my skills, I explore different techniques.

Describe your dream project.

One of my dream projects is a solo exhibition titled "Homage to You."

What is the main inspiration behind your latest artwork?

My latest works this year are inspired by music and the journey home. I’ve been working on a series titled Traveling Man, based on my observations during my trips home to Tulungagung from Jogja/Solo.

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

My works are born from personal, empirical observations—what happens inside and outside of myself. Small moments around me often contain aesthetic and philosophical values, such as desire, hope, existence, melancholic feelings, and empathy.

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

My process starts with observing my surroundings, listening to music, or reading. Ideas often pile up visually, and when I’m in front of the canvas, I choose which ones to execute. Sometimes, new ideas emerge during the process. There’s no special technique—I allow flexibility in form and technique. My figures aren't just physical forms; they represent psychological states, atmospheres, and emotions. For example, in Running Time, I gave a blurry impression to reflect the idea of time passing quickly, while in Objects Record Memories, the objects feel dynamic and unstable, symbolizing the recording of fleeting moments.

How do you overcome challenges in creating art?

Limited materials and time constraints can be a challenge. In between projects, I observe and collect ideas or visuals to use later. I also work with whatever materials are available, sometimes using charcoal on raw canvas or pen on ticket paper.

As an artist, what is your favorite quote?

"A painting is like a dream that must be achieved. I imagine it, compose it, even on a small piece of paper, then do everything I can to bring it to life. When the painting is finished, one dream is fulfilled, and countless new dreams are born."