Smiling Angels from the Sky
2018
Fiberglass, lamp, wire, mechanical devices
each 98 x 95 x 50 cm (10 pieces)
Exhibited
Kochi-Muziris Biennale, India, 2018.12.12-2019.03.29
ArtJog: Enlightenment, Jogja National Museum, Yogyakarta, Indonesia 2018.05.04-2018.06.04
Smiling Angels from the Sky
2018
Fiberglass, lamp, wire, mechanical devices
each 98 x 95 x 50 cm (10 pieces)
Exhibited
Heri Dono : Invitational Exhibition, Art Central, Hong Kong, The Columns Gallery, 2019.03.26-2019.03.31
Heri Dono : Invitational Exhibition, Art Busan, Korea, The Columns Gallery, 2019.05.31- 2019.06.02
Heri Dono Solo Exhibition, Seoul, The Columns Gallery, 2019.05.08- 2019.06.07
In the series, Smiling Angels from the Sky, the interpretation of angels is not tied to any specific religion. This idea reflects the ethos of early realism, emphasising the portrayal of subjects as observed in reality. With our imagination at play, we are presented with the allusion that art has the power to embody the presence of an angel and captivate our minds. Dono’s inspiration stems from subjects that dwell within the figments of his creativity; his angels encapsulate the enthusiasm in facing the future. These descending angels carry Chakra from the Gods and are messengers of Eros, the eternal fire of life. Illuminating on the driving forces of life, these divine entities connect with us through imagination, fantasy, dreams and nurtures the possibility of a harmonious existence between humanity and the universe.
The Loyal Barong
2012
Acrylic on canvas
200 x 300 cm
Exhibited
Art Busan, Korea, The Columns Gallery, 2019.05.31- 2019.06.02
Heri Dono Solo Exhibition, Seoul, The Columns Gallery, 2019.05.08- 2019.06.07
Asia Now Paris, The Columns Gallery, 2019.10.16-2019.10.20
Heri Dono’s large painting The loyal Barong is sequel to The Last Sarimin a painting that he featured in his 2008 solo exhibition entitled Nobody’s Land. It shows the mythological Balinese creature that protects humans from evil spirits, trying to drive away a King Kong-like character. The artist states that he tries to address the notion of monumentality not only in the form or dimension of the painting, but through his moral conviction that “truth or good should continue to struggle without end throughout human life”. In case you might be wondering, Sarimin the most common name of macaques that are abused to perform for the benefit of panhandling activities on city streets on Java. Of course, in his paintings Sarimin is no longer the macaque, but a representation of all the cruel and greedy who manipulate, abuse and take advantage of weak victims.
The Journey of the Ship’s Odyssey
2018
Acrylic on canvas
150 x 200 cm
Exhibited
Kochi-Muziris Biennale, India, 2018.12.12-2019.03.29
Heri Dono Solo Exhibition, Seoul, The Columns Gallery, 2019.05.08- 2019.06.07
Asia Now Paris, The Columns Gallery, 2019.10.16-2019.10.20
SPECTRE, The Columns Gallery, Singapore, 2022.07.23-2022.09.10
The Journey of the Ship's Odyssey, explores maritime culture around the world, highlighting legendary explorers who sailed the high seas and oceans such as Admiral Zheng He, Vasco Da Gama, Christopher Columbus, Ferdinand Magellan and Captain Cook. Navigating across the globe entirely by sea, the explorations of these mariners contributed to our understanding of the world map from a maritime perspective. In the artwork, an airborne battleship releasing a plume of flames symbolises energy and maritime supremacy, while the flying angels represent guardians of hope and a better future. A horse-drawn carriage carrying passengers signifies technological progress in trade and transport. It approaches a godlike titan that wields rich historical truths, embodying diverse cultures and civilisations in the East and West.
Semar and the Angel’s Perspective of the World
2018
Acrylic on canvas
150 x 200 cm
Exhibited
Kochi-Muziris Biennale, India, 2018.12.12-2019.03.29
Heri Dono Solo Exhibition, Seoul, The Columns Gallery, 2019.05.08- 2019.06.07
Asia Now Paris, The Columns Gallery, 2019.10.16-2019.10.20
SPECTRE, The Columns Gallery, Singapore, 2022.07.23-2022.09.10
Semar and the Angel’s Perspective of the World illustrates the ravishing and handsome Semar, a deity who embodies Ismoyo and the incarnation of Shiva. This artwork presents a world undefined by geographical boundaries but through geopolitical perspectives, reflecting on the period of colonization that once divided regions. Adopting the Mandala concept, oneness with the world, the painting allegorises a unified realm under the guidance of angels towards benevolence. It depicts a boat that spiritually communicates with Semar's vehicle, conveying messages of peace and harmony.
The Negotiating Guards
2011
Acrylic on canvas
90 x 100 cm
Exhibited
Heri Dono Solo Exhibition, Seoul, The Columns Gallery, 2019.05.08- 2019.06.07
Asia Now Paris, The Columns Gallery, 2019.10.16-2019.10.20
SPECTRE, The Columns Gallery, Singapore, 2022.07.23-2022.09.10
Art Moments Jakarta, The Columns Gallery, 2023.08.18-2023.08.20
The Negotiating Guards depict the spiritual expertwho discuss in the Mount Merapi to protect natureagainst destruction.
