Masters of Modern Indonesian Portraiture

The exhibition offered significant insight into the rich portrait practice of Indonesia, showcasing key modernist works.

A major National Gallery of Indonesia initiative, Masters of Modern Indonesian Portraiture was an exhibition of thirty-five significant Indonesian artworks presented at the National Portrait Gallery in Canberra, Australia. 

The exhibition offered significant insight into the rich portrait practice of Indonesia, showcasing key modernist works (1930 - 1980s) drawn from the National Gallery of Indonesia’s collection along with a selection of contemporary works by leading contemporary artists. 

It was the first time works from the National Gallery of Indonesia were shown in Australia and importantly it was a rare opportunity for Australian audiences to view the work of eminent modern artists from Indonesia, including masters S. Sudjojono, Hendra Gunawan and Affandi. 

The project was a National Gallery of Indonesia exhibition that was developed collaboratively with the National Portrait Gallery. It was the first formal project in what is hoped to be an ongoing relationship between the National Portrait Gallery and the National Gallery of Indonesia.