Sunyata: A Newfound Statement of Indonesian Architecture

VAB is one of the most celebrated architecture exhibitions in the world. This event does not merely showcase what have been designed and built, but it also challenges current topics within the architecture space and widens the discourse for the future. This year, curators Yvonne Farrell and Shelley Mcnamara picked the theme of “Freespace” with hope to burrow into the aspirations, ambitions and generosity of architecture.

IAI and Bekraf announced an open application to Indonesian architects in mid-2017. The submissions are judged by prominent Indonesian architects, academics and a film director. By the fourth quarter of 2017, the curator team for VAB had been chosen. They are Ardy Hartono, David Hutama, Dimas Satria, Johanes Adika, Jonathan Aditya and Ary Indra, acting as lead curator. Their winning concept is called “Sunyata”, a Sanskrit word that means “emptiness”. The judges praised this concept as it provides a new way to appreciate Indonesian architecture.

To express the emptiness, the team hangs a sheet of white paper to form an open curve, filling the space that was once a former bullet warehouse of Venice Arsenal. The colour selection, the simple form and the silence within are unexpectedly poetic. Tucked away from the entrance, the Indonesia Pavilion offers visitors a place of rest, while giving a way to experience Indonesian architecture.

Under the giant paper, there are several precedents that have been chosen to represent the “emptiness” in Indonesian architecture. These include Rumah Betang of Dayak Tribe, which represents our vernacular architecture, and Artotel Sanur by Studio Tonton

Indonesian Architect Association (IAI) is participating in the Venice Architecture Biennale (VA B) for the second time this year. After going with the “Craftsmanship” theme four years ago, this time they have chosen “Sunyata” to respond to “Freespace”, the main theme of VA B 2018. This year, the attendance of Indonesia Pavilion is fully supported by the Indonesian Creative Economy Agency (Bekraf ), which is represented by its vice chairman Ricky Joseph Pesik as one of the commissionaires. Indonesia Design was invited to Venice, Italy to see the installation.

and Masjid Agung Tubaba by Andra Matin representing modern architecture.

There are two openings on the paper through which people can walk and enjoy the white space. The curators expected the room to remain silent so visitors can enjoy the serenity offered by the installation. What happened is the opposite. The pavilion was constantly full of people, with some seemingly taking in the simplicity of the space, while others are busy taking pictures on site. Picture-taking is understandable, as the installation is indeed photogenic.

The exhibition started on 24 May 2018 and was open for public visitors two days later. Visit the Indonesia Pavilion at the Venice Arsenal and experience the pavilion yourself. The exhibition remains open until 26 November 2018.

Arch. Alessandro Luigi Colombo,

Italian Design Ambassador

I’m very impressed with the Indonesia Pavilion this year. It is very nice and interesting. Your idea of emptiness is full of meaning and it evokes a very strong emotion within the public. I think Sunyata has done well with a very small waste and very minimal approach to the exhibition.

Triawan Munaf,

Chairman of Bekraf

This philosophical work represents a thing that consistently appears in Indonesian architecture. The “emptiness” is also a part of our culture and lifestyle – this is why we would always need this kind of space experience where one can contemplate.

Ricky Joseph Pesik,

Vice Chairman of Bekraf

I’m happy that this pavilion shows that our architect can make contemporary architecture. The exhibition provokes curiosity of many people, and invites them to see more of Indonesia, and especially Indonesian architecture.

Joshua Simandjuntak,

Head of Marketing Deputy of Bekraf

For me personally, it is very interesting that this is exceptional. It is different than the ordinary exhibitions where our architect showcased the works physically. Here we are offered with this thoughtful experience of emptiness.

Andra Matin,

Indonesian architect

The pavilion gives us a new perspective about the Indonesian architecture – it’s not old-fashioned and it proves that it’s not always about the excessive details like those of traditional houses. The soft texture of the paper creates the subtle ambiance. Here is how we Indonesian architects aim to move forward.

JS. George Lantu,

Vice Ambassador of Indonesia to Italy

We appreciate and are proud of the team that has given a new perspective to see Indonesian architecture in VAB, one of the biggest architecture events in the world. The team focuses on not only the form but also the concept. This work marks a new sphere for our architects.