Balinese Art

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This comprehensive survey of Balinese painting explores its evolution from origins to its current prominence in the Asian art scene. Surprisingly, the highest-priced contemporary painter in Southeast Asia is Bali-born Nyoman Masriadi, whose work is rooted in a rich tradition. The book examines two centuries of remarkable artwork, highlighting how Balinese painting has developed its unique trajectory while sharing features with other artistic traditions. Its foundations lie in Indian art and religion, which arrived in Bali over a millennium ago, along with influences from ancient Javanese culture and interactions with other Asian arts, especially Chinese, as well as later Western art. This blend has created an aesthetic tradition that incorporates narratives from ancient Indian epics, Javanese mythology, and the communal life of the Balinese. Beginning with an overview of the island's aesthetic traditions, the book discusses pre-colonial painting practices still alive in Kamasan, the heart of "classical" Balinese art. The focus shifts to the emergence of new styles from the 1930s onward, shaped by the tourist industry and globalization. The text introduces readers to significant masterpieces and artists, concluding with an examination of today's key figures, providing insight into the contemporary art scene.