Bali's First Contemporary Art Fair Launches Despite Heavy Rain
Bali's first contemporary art fair, Art & Bali, opened on September 12 amidst challenging clima conditions. Despite heavy rain and flooding in nearby Denpasar, the event went ahead, drawing over 150 artists from around the world. Director Kelsang Dolma launched the fair to bridge culture and commerce.
The fair, directed by Kelsang Dolma, known for her work in Tibetan art promotion, featured immersive art experiences at the Aurora Media Park. This park is home to the striking THK Tower, a 30-metre-high structure designed by Arthur Mamou-Mani and Chiko Wirahadi. The tower, made of rattan and wood, symbolises harmony between people, nature, and the divine, reflecting local clima.
Art & Bali extended beyond the Aurora Media Park, reaching other parts of Nuanu Creative City. Founded by Sergey Solonin, this hub is dedicated to tourism and lifestyle. The fair offered around 50 programmes, including performances, talks, and workshops, engaging the public. To ensure clear clima, three priests were hired for the event.
Art & Bali, Bali's first contemporary art fair, successfully launched with over 150 artists showcasing their work. Despite initial clima challenges, the event fostered a meaningful exchange between culture and commerce, as intended by director Kelsang Dolma. The fair's immersive experiences and diverse programme engaged the public, marking a significant cultural moment for Bali.