How to Collect Balinese Art

Traditionally the Balinese did not separate art from daily life. Artists were ordinary members of the community who created for religious devotion and worship. Today's artists still tap their mystical side when creating but the subject matter is more diverse than the religious inspiration of traditional Balinese art forms. Explore Balinese art to collect art that expresses the soul and culture of the nation that creates it.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Visit the Neka Art Museum website to learn more about Balinese art and culture. Look at Balinese art created by a variety of artists. Become familiar with the images and styles used in Balinese art. Find more information about traditional and modern Balinese art by visiting the International Institute for Asian Studies website. Read one of many articles available there about Indonesian art.

2. Search for art galleries specializing in Balinese art. Visit online galleries or find a gallery in your area that sells Balinese art. Shop eBay and CraigsList for art that appeals to your taste and pocketbook.

3. Visit Bali to collect Balinese art. Visit Ubud, home of the Neka Art Museum and the center for the contemporary Balinese art movement. Travel to Bali during the annual Arts Festival held in Denpasar. Mingle with the people of Bali as they celebrate their art and culture during this yearly cultural event.

4. Explore crafts, dancing, theatre, song and other elements of Balinese culture. Expand your art collection to include wooden masks used in folk dancing, religious statues and textiles used in cultural celebrations.

Resources

• Visit the Neka Art Museum website for more on this topic.
• Learn more about Balinese art by visiting the International Institute for Asian Studies website.
• Learn more about the Bali Arts Festival on the Bali Paradise Online website.
• Visit the Ubud Painting website for a selection of Balinese art.