Divine inspiration

By LIM CHIA YING

WALKING into the studio of artist Sasya Traggono is akin to strolling in a garden with flowers all abloom,” declared art writer Noreen M. Flores, a friend of the artist.  

Indeed, the rich and vibrant colours of red, orange, and yellow splashed across her tulip flowers are captivating, drawing the viewer's attention to the artist behind the works - a spirited soul with a strong affinity for the simple yet beautiful blooms.  

Sasya looking resplendent flanked by two of her equally gorgeous flower pieces on the opening night of her exhibition themed 'For You My Lord'.

The Javanese-born artist from Indonesia is on her regional exhibition tour themed “For You My Lord”, which features her experimentation in larger-than-life, striking flowers. 

“I lived in Holland for about eight years, so tulips provided much of the inspiration for these paintings. 

“Women like flowers and flowers are a beauty in itself. The subject may be simple, but flowers are seen as something pleasurable and the colours rendered are of the essence,” said Sasya. 

She continued, “I’ve liked painting since I was young, but never dreamt of becoming an artist. 

“I graduated from from university with an engineering degree and was helping out in my family's cosmetics and beauty products business.” 

Could It Be Magic' showcasing hues of red, orange, and yellow blending effortlessly with shades of green.

However, she decided to venture into art full-time in 1998, showcasing her works within Indonesia and in Europe. From how things have turned out, she believes everything happens for a reason. 

“Ever since I became a single parent following my divorce, I've had more freedom. And now that I’m a devout Christian, I believe that God wants me to make use of my passion and talent to spread His message.  

“And that’s why this exhibition is themed ‘For You My Lord’. I have found Him, am dedicating my works to Him, and wish to tell it to everyone,” explained Sasya. 

The fashion-savvy Sasya has an aura that makes her as endearing as her flowers. 

A pretty piece in which pastel colour combinations are used, themed ' You Hold My World'.

The colour combinations of pink-red, orange-red, purplish-pink and bright chilli red, or even contrasting tones like orange and green, are blended effortlessly, while features like petals, the stalks, and pollen are drawn in vivid detail.  

It makes the viewer see the splendour of the flower which is often taken for granted.  

Then, there are the softer pastel-coloured pieces that ooze femininity, but the flowers look equally stunning and gorgeous, and one wishes one could just pluck them out to beautify your garden! 

The paintings have unique, dreamy titles that tell of a loving relationship, like You Hold My World, I Said I Love You and Thank You, My Love, that make them personal and dear to the heart.  

“They are all painted using watercolour on canvas. It’s a rare and unique mode and something challenging for me.  

“Watercolour is suitable for paper, which is absorbent. It was difficult to control the watercolour on canvas and was a test of patience, nevertheless, it has taught me a lot about discipline,” said Sasya. 

The result of the watercolour flowing freely onto the canvas has given the works a spontaneity effect and the multiple layering of colours. 

Sasya is also famous for her Indonesian ethnic subjects that she painted in the past, like puppets and batik, which she said were a favourite among men. 

“I hope my paintings can help elevate my country’s image. I hope I can help bring people out of poverty and there would be a change in the way people view Indonesia.  

“I wish to show that Indonesians, too, can break into the international arena through good things like arts,” said Sasya. 

Among the accolades she received were the ‘Golden Pallete Award’, Jakarta in 2004 and the prestigious Jakarta CP Biennale Art Award 2003, which propelled her works to prominence in both the Indonesian and regional art scenes. 

Her paintings have even caught the eye of former Indonesian President Megawati Sukarnoputri, who is the proud owner of a large piece showing a blue-purple flower. 

Her only child, 11-year-old Nicolas, has inherited her talent. Showing this writer her iPOD filled with Nicolas’s paintings, Sasya said she planned to have a joint exhibition with her son sometime next May. 

This exhibition – Sasya’s first in Malaysia – is being held at the Wei-Ling Gallery in Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur. Sponsored by Air Asia, it ends on Friday.  

For details, call 03-2260 1106