“Saka Kelir”: Ngantang Artists’ Collective Holds Exhibition in Batu CityPosted on August 27, 2025 by Irno
🖋️ Writer: Ted/Hendrawan – Malang Bureau Reporter ✍️ Editor: Kenzo | AswinNews.com – Sharp, Accurate, Trusted, and Updated
ASWINEWS.COM – BATU – The Ngantang-based artists’ collective Perupa Dimensi held an art exhibition entitled “Saka Kelir” at Galeri Raos, Batu City, from August 17–24, 2025. The exhibition served as both an artistic statement and an effort to affirm the creative identity of Ngantang’s artists amid the fast-paced currents of modern times.
The exhibition was officially opened by Batu art figure Slamet and attended by participating artists, invited guests, and students from schools across Batu Raya. The public could enjoy the exhibition free of charge daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Appreciation from an Art Observer
One visitor, Iwan, an art observer from Kalimantan who happened to be vacationing in Batu with his family, expressed deep appreciation.
“I’ve found that Batu Raya holds tremendous potential, especially among its young artists. The Dimensi community has proven capable of creating works of high artistic value,” he told reporters.
Searching for Artistic Identity
In a casual conversation, three Dimensi members – Soni, Anggun, and Chepy – explained that the exhibition was more than just a showcase.
“Through Saka Kelir, we want to affirm Ngantang’s identity. This exhibition is both a personal and collective statement, the result of our search for and discovery of artistic identity,” they said in unison.
The Dimensi collective, which consists of 18 artists, emphasized that each artwork reflects a spirit of building an authentic visual identity. Rather than adhering to a single style, they dare to explore their own artistic expressions to produce unique works.
The Philosophical Meaning of “Saka Kelir”
The title “Saka Kelir” carries profound meaning. In Javanese, “Saka” means pillar or support, while “Kelir” refers to a screen or canvas. This symbolizes the strong foundation that supports every stroke and color—a metaphor for the creative grounding of the Dimensi artists.
“It’s an invitation to reflect: to what extent have we discovered our own foundation, both in art and in life,” they added.
Art from the Margins
Though hailing from Ngantang—a region far from the bustle of Indonesia’s mainstream art centers—the Dimensi artists demonstrated that true creativity knows no geographical boundaries.
The Saka Kelir exhibition presented diverse works, from dynamic compositions to intimate narratives, each affirming the artists’ visual identities. Ultimately, Saka Kelir was not only an art exhibition but also a reflection on courage, perseverance, and the journey toward self-discovery.
Editorial Note
The “Saka Kelir” exhibition proves that art does not always emerge from metropolitan centers. From Ngantang, a region often overlooked on the national art map, have arisen strong, authentic, and deeply reflective visual voices. Local art such as this deserves to be nurtured, for it bears witness—and offers inspiration—on how creativity can transcend geographical, social, and temporal boundaries.