by Hayati Nupus
JAKARTA, Feb. 9 (Xinhua) -- Yusra Febriyanti strolled slowly through the aisles of some 130 calligraphy works and paintings at The Art of Togetherness: Indonesian & Chinese Painting and Calligraphy Exhibition, held in a shopping mall in Tangerang City, Indonesia's Banten province.
Her eyes traced the elegant curves of the Chinese characters, recognizing that these were not mere scribbles but intricate works embedded with profound meanings from Chinese literature.
Yusra had always been fascinated by calligraphy and Chinese literature, which she studied deeply while attending college in China. As she admired the artworks, she smiled, realizing that although her studies had ended long ago, her passion for calligraphy and Chinese literature remained as strong as ever.
"The calligraphy on display is highly unique, ranging from abstract to traditional styles," she told Xinhua on Saturday.
The exhibition from Feb. 8 to Feb. 16 is part of the celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of Indonesia-China diplomatic relations, explained Suriadi, head of the Indonesian Chinese Clan Social Association (PSMTI) of Banten Province. The event is a collaborative effort between PSMTI, the Indonesia-China Friendship Association, and the Overseas Chinese Calligraphers Association.
The opening ceremony on Saturday afternoon featured a vibrant showcase of dances, music, kung fu performances, and a lion dance, blending the arts and cultures of both nations.
The exhibition features around 70 artworks brought directly from China, complemented by works created by Indonesian artists. Many of the calligraphy works are adorned with intricate landscape paintings, floral motifs, and depictions of diverse animals.
"We aim to strengthen cultural ties between the two countries through the universal languages of calligraphy and painting," said Suriadi.
Rachmat Soekasah, chairman of the Indonesia-China Friendship Association, noted that the exhibition is a symbol of the spirit of togetherness and collaboration between the two nations rather than just an art appreciation event.
"Art is a universal language capable of conveying profound messages. Through these paintings and calligraphy works, we see the shared history and values of both countries. This exhibition is not only a celebration of art but also a reflection of the deep friendship that has been nurtured over the years," he said.
Rachmat expressed hope that the exhibition would further strengthen the cultural bond between Indonesia and China, not only in economics and politics but also in the appreciation of art and culture, which can contribute to building a peaceful and harmonious society.
Wu Yongfu, a member of the Chinese artists association, said that since Indonesia and China established diplomatic relations in 1950, cultural and artistic exchanges between the two countries have continued to grow and achieve remarkable results. "This exhibition features a wide variety of themes and styles, with each artist using their own unique techniques to celebrate the friendship between our two nations," he said.
"This is not just about art. It's about connecting hearts. Let's use this exhibition as a new beginning to continue building cultural bridges between our countries, just like the ancient Maritime Silk Road. Through art, we can deepen understanding and bring our cultures even closer together," Wu added. ■
