Spotlight: Magical Moments

The new Indonesian contemporary art fair ‘Art Moments Jakarta’ facilitates public interaction with international-quality artworks

We touch base with Leo Silitonga regarding the recent Art Moments Jakarta

Set up by a team of individuals with a diversity of experience in the art world, the new “Art Moments” exhibition had its inaugural event at the Sheraton Grand Hotel Ballroom at the Sheraton Grand Jakarta Gandaria City Hotel. The fair ran from May

3 to 5 and showcased a number of artworks from local and international artists such as Heri Dono, Mochtar Sarman, Christine Ay Tjoe, Handiwirman Saputra, Srihadi Soedarsono, MR., Banksy, and KAWS.

“Art Moments Jakarta” is the brainchild of Leo Silitonga, who has lengthy experience in the art world. Leo is a graduate from the Bandung Institute of Technology and he has an MBA in finance from the Southern Illinois University in US. His passion for art started around 2004, and with his background as a banker and new art collector, he arranged many events in collaboration with local and international galleries. Indonesia Tatler was lucky enough to land an exclusive interview with Leo to find out more about this new art fair.

What do you hope to achieve with this event?

I am delighted to provide a platform in Indonesia to showcase the works of remarkable artists. Through “Art Moments Jakarta”, I hope to provide unrivalled access for the public to experience leading Asian and Indonesian artists.

Why did you choose a shopping mall as a venue?

We want to change the public’s perspective of malls—we want them to see a mall as a public space rather than just a shopping centre. Furthermore, Gandaria City is well known as an art-oriented mall where museum-quality sculptures are regularly displayed.

Do you have any must-see artists you can recommend?

I think that some of the must-see artworks are by Cyril Kongo. He is a French graffiti artist who has collaborated with high-end brands such as Hermès, Richard Mille, and Chanel. He is also a well-known name among the high society in Indonesia.

What is your opinion about the Indonesian art scene in general?

I think the development of art infrastructure in Indonesia has improved significantly in recent years based on the numerous international-level art fairs that have been successfully held here, with tens of thousands of people attending each one. Meanwhile, many Indonesian artists have been invited to showcase their works at international exhibitions. For example, Handiwirman Saputra will showcase his work at this year’s Venice Biennale. Furthermore, one of our challenges is how to introduce artworks to the next generation. That’s partly what inspired me to hold this art exhibition in a shopping mall where the artworks can easily be accessed by students and children.