Penawati

1996

Penawati (b.1996) is a woman born in Amlapura, Bali. Her interest and aspirations to cultivate her artistic talents led her to delve deeper into the arts at the Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI) in Denpasar, where she pursued postgraduate studies.

Being a woman born and raised in Bali has brought me close to the diverse traditional customs, yet living in the midst of modernity has influenced my artwork to reflect a synthesis of contemporary life and tradition.

Color holds profound significance for me, serving as a gateway to evoke emotions and stimulate imagination. In monochrome artworks, there's no defined focal point. Unlike reading words on a page, there's no prescribed direction. Viewers aren't compelled to navigate from one section to another; instead, they're invited to immerse themselves in the entirety of a single hue. Understanding and experience stem from absorbing the artwork as a whole, with color standing independently, yet harmoniously with form.

Inquiry

get to know the artist

Interview with Penawati

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

My name is Ni Wayan Penawati, but I go by Pena. I am from Bali, and my Balinese heritage greatly influences my work. Being part of a research community exploring Balinese colors, I’ve learned how traditional colors are sourced from nature, like blue from the taun plant, white from deer and pig bones, black from wood ash, and yellow from pere rocks. This deep connection with my surroundings is a constant source of inspiration in my paintings.

Who are your biggest artistic influences?

As a woman, my art is influenced by my personal experiences and the way I perceive the world. My viewpoint as a woman shapes my identity, and my surroundings, culture, and the environmental beauty of Bali are also central to my artistic vision.

How do you define success as an artist?

Success for me is about finding my voice and sharing my message, especially through my art. I express my role as a woman and how I connect with the world, focusing on how we live, the environment, and how we position ourselves in life.

How do you develop your art skills?

I develop my skills by continuing to explore my surroundings and engaging in research, like the study of Balinese colors. I also paint regularly in my small studio and collaborate with others, including my sister, which deepens my artistic growth.

Describe your dream project.

My dream project would involve further research into traditional Balinese art and color, perhaps even creating a large-scale series that combines modern techniques with the ancient wisdom of Balinese color traditions.

What is the main inspiration behind your latest artwork?

My latest piece reflects my personal journey of strength during the pandemic. The art installation I created from cloth symbolizes my recovery and empowerment during a challenging time.

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

The themes of womanhood, identity, the environment, and resilience are at the heart of my work. I aim to voice my personal experiences and perspectives as a woman, inviting others to reflect on how we live and interact with the world.

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

My creative process is deeply personal, often inspired by research and reflection on my surroundings. I frequently incorporate natural materials and traditional Balinese techniques, combined with modern artistic expressions to convey my message.

How do you overcome challenges in creating art?

I overcome challenges by turning to my art itself. When I feel down or face obstacles, I channel those emotions into my work, which becomes a source of strength and healing. The act of creation helps me move forward.

As an artist, what is your favorite quote?

While I haven't mentioned a specific quote in this text, I often draw inspiration from themes of resilience, identity, and connection to the world around me.