Ep 11. Jakarta: Art Defying Moral Conservatism
- April 27, 2018
- 22 min
Resilient Cities season 1 episode 11, titled Jakarta: Art Defying Moral Conservatism, explores the vibrant art scene in the Indonesian city of Jakarta in the face of conservative cultural and religious pressures.
The episode introduces viewers to a diverse range of artists working in various mediums, including street art, theater, and poetry. Despite challenges such as censorship, limited funding, and backlash from conservative groups, these artists are using their craft to push boundaries and address important social issues in their country.
Throughout the episode, viewers get a sense of the political and cultural landscape that these artists are operating within. Indonesia is the world's largest Muslim-majority country, and there has been a recent trend towards more conservative interpretations of Islam. This has had a significant impact on the art world, with some forms of expression considered taboo or even illegal.
However, the artists profiled in this episode refuse to be silenced. They use their work to confront issues such as inequality, corruption, and human rights abuses. For example, one street artist uses graffiti to highlight the struggles of Indonesia's poor and marginalized communities. Another group of artists uses theater to explore issues related to gender and sexuality, challenging cultural norms and taboos.
Despite the challenges they face, the artists in Jakarta are finding ways to create and share their work. They form tight-knit communities of support, working together to organize exhibitions, performances, and other events that showcase their talent and make a statement.
Overall, Resilient Cities season 1 episode 11 offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of Jakarta's artistic rebels, showing how they are using their creativity to spark conversations and effect change in a challenging political climate. The episode is both inspiring and thought-provoking, encouraging viewers to consider the role of art in shaping society and promoting resilience.
